How Canadian businesses can embrace intelligent, faster ways to pay and get paid in 2026
As we enter 2026, small and medium businesses face a pivotal moment in how money moves. The old model manual invoicing, delayed payouts, and rigid settlement cycles is giving way to agentic commerce, where intelligent systems act on behalf of businesses and customers to make transactions faster, smarter, and more secure.
What does this mean for you? Imagine automated invoicing that selects the most efficient payment rail, or payout systems that anticipate contractor needs and trigger real-time transfers. These capabilities aren’t distant they’re emerging now, powered by two key enablers: real-time payouts for the creator economy and stablecoin-backed settlement for cross-border speed.
Creators, freelancers, influencers, and independent professionals are now a major part of the SMB ecosystem. They expect immediacy and transparency in payments. Meeting those expectations strengthens relationships and reduces friction. At the same time, stablecoins are entering the payments infrastructure, helping global networks shorten settlement windows and improve liquidity. While consumer facing use may take time, these behind-the-scenes changes signal a future where cash flow is more predictable and international transactions more seamless.
How can SMBs prepare?
- Digitize and automate: Move beyond manual processes. Adopt platforms that support real-time payments and integrate compliance checks.
- Offer choice and speed: Enable instant payout options for contractors and flexible payment methods for customers.
- Stay informed: On emerging payment and operational solutions that will help improve workflow and efficiencies to your business and Canada’s upcoming real-time rails. These innovations will shape treasury and cash flow strategies.
- Discover what’s possible for your business: Access a wealth of free resources designed to help you stay ahead guides, expert tips, and practical solutions to meet evolving customer expectations and drive digital transformation though the Visa Small Business Hub. Explore tools that make growth easier and innovation achievable, all in one place.
The common thread is agility. By embracing these trends thoughtfully, SMBs can turn payment complexity into a growth lever freeing time, improving liquidity, and creating experiences that feel effortless for customers and partners alike.
2026 isn’t just another year; it’s a turning point. Equip your business to thrive in a world where money moves faster, smarter, and with purpose.
Sam Fuda
President, Maximizer
Sam Fuda is Vice President of Commercial and Money Movement Solutions at Visa Canada. In this role, Sam is responsible for Visa’s strategy and market engagement relating to global money movement, including business payments, real-time payments and open banking. Based in Toronto, he is a key member of Visa’s Canadian Leadership Team and North American Commercial & Money Movement Leadership teams.
