MasterCard and World Vision to Address Key Issues Facing Humanitarian Sector

Multi-layered Partnership Focuses on Aid Delivery, Industry Research, Fundraising and Advocacy to Reach More People in Need

MasterCard and World Vision today signed a multi-layered partnership agreement in which MasterCard will apply its expertise, products and services in support of World Vision’s efforts to tackle key challenges impacting the humanitarian sector.

International humanitarian aid assistance continues to grow, reaching an all-time high last year. Yet, at a time of unprecedented humanitarian crises, it is insufficient in meeting the needs of the millions of people affected by poverty, political turmoil and natural disasters every year.

“Effectiveness and sustainability are two of the most pressing issues facing humanitarian organizations,” said Ann Cairns, president, International Markets, MasterCard. “We’re increasingly using our core expertise to create innovative solutions with NGOs like World Vision that address these pain points and better support those affected by poverty and emergencies around the world. We believe this partnership can serve as a blueprint for private and non-profit organizations working together to create mutually beneficial and sustainable solutions for some of the world’s most challenging issues.”

“Responding to disasters and meeting humanitarian needs is a shared responsibility,” says Kevin Jenkins, president, World Vision International. “World Vision values partnerships like this that aim to move the relationship between NGOs and private enterprises from transactional to transformational. We want to harness each other’s experience, skills and technology to reach more people in more effective innovative and efficient ways.”

Through the partnership, MasterCard and World Vision are improving humanitarian aid delivery via digital identity and electronic payment technology, including World Vision’s Last Mile Mobile Solutions (LMMS) and theMasterCard Aid Network. MasterCard partnered with World Vision to test both systems in the Philippines to help micro-entrepreneurs rebuild businesses after Typhoon Haiyan. World Vision also began using LMMS and MasterCard Aid Network in Nepal, following last year’s earthquake, to deliver a wide range of services, food assistance and equipment.