Mumbai, Sept. 4 -- Mastercard Strive in India and its complementary programmes have facilitated more than USD 150 million in credit for small businesses in the country, according to a company release.

The initiative has also helped more than 800,000 micro enterprises across agriculture, manufacturing, retail and rural services access digital tools and financial services. Women-led or women-owned businesses account for 60 per cent of these enterprises, the release said.

"India's next phase of economic growth will be shaped by the strength and resilience of its small businesses," said Gautam Aggarwal, President, India & South Asia, Mastercard.

"As digital technologies become increasingly central to commerce, ensuring that entrepreneurs c...