Digital Transformation and iFood Pago Boost Growth and Competitiveness for Brazilian SMEs

Brazilian small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly in the restaurant and industrial sectors, are experiencing significant growth and enhanced competitiveness through targeted digital transformation initiatives and financial support platforms. According to a study by Ipsos-Ipec commissioned by iFood Pago, 77% of businesses receiving credit from the platform report operational progress, with 79% of restaurants specifically noting positive impacts. The platform has disbursed R$ 2.83 billion in credit, filling a crucial gap, as 63% of credit recipients were previously denied by traditional banks. CEO Bruno Henriques highlighted the role of technology in fair credit assessment and professionalization, with 81% of restaurants stating iFood Pago aids their business development. A case in point is Fortal Cuscuz, whose sales increased by 70% after credit access. Parallelly, the Sucesso Digital no Negócio initiative in Minas Gerais, developed by Instituto Euvaldo Lodi in partnership with SEBRAE and CNI, offers personalized mentoring to improve digital maturity and strategic planning. This program helps micro and small industries navigate challenges like execution capacity and lack of trained personnel through online, individualized training over three months. Industries have reported measurable improvements in digital marketing and operational efficiency, reinforcing digital transformation as a fundamental competitiveness factor for Brazilian SMEs. Together, these efforts underscore the critical synergy of digital tools and financial empowerment in shaping Brazil’s SME growth trajectory.