As the Official Payment Services Provider of New York Road Runners, Mastercard has announced the launch of the ‘50 Years and Running’ campaign in support of the TCS New York City Marathon.
In partnership with documentary filmmaker and small business champion Nick Heller, otherwise known as @newyorknico, Mastercard is celebrating the businesses that have powered New York City over the past 50 years.
The campaign features three small businesses near the marathon route that have overcome obstacles in the face of adversity and provide impact on their communities. They include:
- Grandma’s Place: a children’s toy and bookstore that caters to people of all ethnicities and backgrounds
- Davey’s Ice Cream: an ice cream seller in Brooklyn with a focus on quality ingredients sourced from local retailers
- Bronx Native: a cultural hub for creators, artists, and entrepreneurs to showcase Bronx talent
“The issues facing small businesses have changed radically in the 50 years since the TCS New York City Marathon began, and the impacts of the pandemic have only amplified and evolved these challenges,” said filmmaker Nick Heller.
“Running a business takes the same dedication, hard work and grit it takes to run a marathon. We’re proud to pay tribute to the small business owners – from Brooklyn to the Bronx – who exemplify what makes this city one of the greatest in the world.”
To further support the small businesses featured in the campaign, Mastercard will provide each with a Digital Doors toolkit comprised of exclusive offerings and resources to… ‘help maximize their digital presence, protect their online operations, and succeed in the new normal.’
“The ’50 Years and Running’ Priceless campaign reflects Mastercard’s ongoing commitment to supporting and elevating the small businesses that serve as the backbone of our communities,” said Cheryl Guerin, Executive Vice President, North America Marketing and Communications at Mastercard.
“We’re thrilled to be celebrating and showcasing the extraordinary small businesses that keep New York City running and provide them with the digital tools and resources they deserve to thrive.”
At the TCS New York City Marathon Expo at the Jacob K Javits Center, which will see approximately 30,000 runners during the week leading up to the race, Mastercard will provide marathon participants and attendees with the opportunity to support small businesses through an event activation.
At Hall 3B, booth 202, Mastercard will unveil an expo venue where consumers can experience ‘Tap on Phone’, Mastercard’s technology that turns an Android smartphone or tablet into an acceptance device.
Tap on Phone is powered by Mastercard Foundry’s Cloud Point of Sale (POS) technology and leverages Verizon 5G, enabling small- and-medium-sized businesses to handle transactions in a fast and secure manner.
Additionally, with every purchase of a US$0.50 Mastercard tote, consumers will be entered for a chance to win one bib for the 2022 NYC Marathon and an array of prizes to support the New York City small businesses featured in the “50 Years and Running” campaign.
“We are excited to have Mastercard as our Official Payment Services Provider for the first time at the TCS New York City Marathon,” said Christine Burke, Senior Vice President, Strategic Partnerships and Runner Products at New York Road Runners.
“Marathon runners will have the opportunity to explore a variety of innovative payment solutions and experiences all while celebrating the small businesses that have powered New York City over the last 50 years.”
The TCS New York City Marathon will take place on November 7. Mastercard will sponsor the Side Street Cheer Zone, located at 4th Avenue & Flatbush at mile eight, the Start Village hospitality space and the TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion.
www.nyrr.org
www.mastercard.com
