Small and medium-sized enterprises are the backbone of economies across Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. They are adopting digital tools, accepting more digital payments and using new ways to pay suppliers, employees  and business partners. But for many, the challenge is no longer only about going digital. It is about bringing disconnected payment and business tools together in a way that saves time, improves visibility and supports growth.

Visa’s Pay and Be Paid 2026 study explores how SMEs across 11 markets manage the everyday realities of running a business — from accepting customer payments and paying suppliers to managing payroll, expenses, inventory and sales. Based on 2,866 face-to-face interviews with business owners and financial decision-makers, the research highlights a clear opportunity: SMEs want solutions that help them pay, get paid and manage money movement more simply, securely and efficiently.