Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are the backbone of Canada’s economy—driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening communities from coast to coast. At Visa, we believe that when small businesses thrive, communities do too. That’s why we’re committed to delivering tools, insights, and support that help Canadian entrepreneurs move faster and smarter.
The Moment: Challenges—and Opportunity
According to Visa’s September 2025 Small Business Pulse Report, 83% of Canadian SMB owners say something is keeping them up at night—nearly half cite financial and economic pressures. Yet 82% have identified at least one core opportunity for growth in the year ahead, from expanding digital customer engagement to adopting new technologies and forging strategic partnerships. Canadian entrepreneurs aren’t standing still; they’re adapting and pushing forward.
How Visa Helps
We’re focused on making business easier—day in, day out. Through the Visa Small Business Hub, owners can access free guides, tips, and practical solutions to navigate shifting customer expectations and accelerate digital transformation.
- Accept payments securely and seamlessly across channels to meet customers wherever they are.
- Capture more value with business credit cards that offer cashback and rewards.
- Unlock savings and visibility with Visa SavingsEdge and Spend Clarity for Business, helping owners reduce costs and make better decisions with clearer data.
Inclusive Growth Matters
Entrepreneurship should be accessible to everyone. She’s Next, Empowered by Visa provides underrepresented founders with funding, mentorship, and networks—because diverse perspectives fuel stronger businesses and stronger communities.
Looking Ahead
Our mission is simple: help Canadian SMBs operate more efficiently, save time and money, and grow with confidence. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling nationwide, Visa is ready to be your partner on the journey.
Explore practical tools and insights at the Small Business Hub—and see what’s possible for your business today.
Denise Press
North American Head of Small Business for Visa Commercial Solutions
Denise Press is the North American Head of Small Business for Visa Commercial Solutions, where she is responsible for developing and executing the business strategy for this high-growth vertical segment. With over 25 years in the payments and financial services industry, Denise has honed her expertise through diverse roles within global financial institutions and the retail and commercial banking sectors. One of Denise’s notable strengths lies in her deep commitment to small businesses. Having worked with small business issuers and later becoming a small business owner herself, she possesses a comprehensive understanding of the sector’s dynamics and the needs of all stakeholders involved. Denise has been a longtime contributor to the entrepreneurial and incubator sector, including developing and implementing an incubator program in her community at the high school level.
