Challenge

A global payments network sought to accelerate growth in the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) segment by identifying potential product enhancements that reinforce the value of their card solutions. Despite serving millions of SMEs, only a small portion of addressable SME spend is carded, reflecting unmet operational needs across payments, cash flow, procurement, and compliance, and a fragmented ecosystem of potential partners.

Approach

The team conducted a global strategic assessment to define a scalable partnership framework for enhancing SME products. The engagement combined market sizing, an SME jobs-to-be-done analysis, ecosystem mapping, and an evaluation of partnership models across multiple regions and industries. High-potential product enhancement opportunities were prioritized through a strategic framework. Deep dives were conducted for priority opportunities, and partner archetypes were developed to clarify where to play, how to win, and the roles the client should assume within partner ecosystems.

Outcome

The work delivered a clear, actionable roadmap to expand SME reach and relevance through product enhancement partnerships. Findings identified priority product enhancements, clarified capability gaps, and outlined partnership models to accelerate adoption and scale. The strategy equipped the client to position itself as an orchestrator within SME ecosystems and advance toward ambitious long-term growth targets.