Mastercard strive empowers digital growth

Mastercard Strive has teamed up with Arifu and MTN Group to empower nearly one million small businesses in Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda

The partnership focuses on digitizing operations, promoting the adoption of digital financial services, and connecting businesses to digital marketplaces through the MoMo Coach chatbot. This initiative equips small business owners with essential digital skills, enabling them to embrace digital tools, secure funding, and effectively participate in online marketplaces.

The MoMo Coach solution, powered by Arifu’s Grasp Platform, delivers micro-learning experiences through mobile messaging. Accessible on multiple platforms, including WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, SMS, and MoMo, it offers business owners and entrepreneurs the flexibility to access practical advice and actionable strategies for growth in the digital economy.

Since its launch in Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda, the program has reached over 930,000 MTN customers, merchants, and agents. More than 75,000 small business owners have taken advantage of free digital courses, with over 45,000 actively engaging with MoMo Coach. Available courses, such as “How to Start Your Business,” “Money Management,” and “Grow and Secure Your Business,” address common challenges like affordability and access to relevant knowledge. These courses are tailored to the needs of MoMo merchants and agents, equipping small business owners with tools to overcome obstacles and thrive in the digital landscape.