According to an April 2022 Statista survey, 21.6% of small businesses said the pandemic had a large negative effective on their operations and 43.9% said it had a moderate negative effect.

Verizon Business, Mastercard and First National Bank of Omaha are now teaming up to help small businesses – whether they need some assistance getting back on their feet or are looking to further thrive – with the launch of a credit card designed to help owners with their expenses, according to a June 15 announcement.

Much like individuals earn points on their personal credit cards for certain purchases, the new Verizon Business Mastercard rewards small businesses on purchases for expenses such as office supplies, technology and fuel.

In the coming weeks, existing Verizon Business wireless customers with fewer than 100 Verizon lines and an online account will be eligible to apply for the new Mastercard. Small business can sign up for an alert for when the Verizon Business Mastercard launches by clicking here.

“Mastercard has been a key partner to us on our journey to help our customers of all sizes transform their businesses and ensure they are truly future-ready,” said Tami Erwin, CEO of Verizon Business, which has its headquarters in Basking Ridge. “We are pleased to expand this partnership to include FNBO and bring this small business credit card to our customers at a time when we know they are seeking new avenues to expand their business, manage costs and maximize their use of new technologies to solve challenges to drive growth.”

Eligible small businesses that use the card will be able to earn and redeem Verizon Business Dollars toward devices or accessories for their business. Other benefits include:

• A new cardholder bonus of $50 toward their first statement
• No annual fee
• Access to a digital diagnostic assessment program, which provides small business owners with resources such as building an e-commerce site, growing their business and protecting their accounts
• ID theft protection

Representatives from Mastercard and FNBO also expressed excitement about the new collaboration. Chiro Aikat, executive vice president, Products & Engineering, North America at Mastercard, said the service fits with small business owners’ search for “smarter, relevant, and customized digital financial products that accelerate their operations and make their lives easier.”

Jerry O’Flanagan, executive vice president, Partner Segment at FNBO, said this program continues the company’s “rich history of helping small businesses grow and succeed.”