Tag: 3BL

HAMILTON, Bermuda, December 17, 2025 /3BL/ – Family-owned Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, reaffirmed its commitment to giving back by hosting its 4th annual ‘250 Holiday Meals’ initiative last week in partnership with The Salvation Army. Held at the North Street Citadel in Hamilton, Bacardi volunteers served 250 hot holiday meals to individuals and families experiencing hardship this season.

With holiday classics prepared by local favorite Soul Food Grill and Café, and desserts donated by Bacardi employees, the festive event offered warmth, nourishment, and human connection during what can be a difficult time for many.

This year’s initiative comes as the Salvation Army faces a surge in demand for its services. The organization now supports upwards of 800 individuals weekly, an increase that reflects broader economic pressures on vulnerable Bermudians. Captain Dennis Maybury of the Salvation Army recently issued a call for public support to help meet rising needs through their annual Christmas fundraising campaign.

“Bacardi’s continued partnership is a vital source of hope for those we serve,” said Captain Maybury. “As food insecurity and housing instability rise across Bermuda, it is heartening to witness corporate citizens like Bacardi step forward. These meals do more than feed — they uplift.”

Douglas Mello, Managing Director of Bacardi International Limited, added: “This initiative reflects the heart of our family-owned business. Our commitment to the Bermuda community is unwavering, and it’s an honor to support the Salvation Army’s tireless efforts, especially at a time when demand for their services has never been higher.”

Bacardi encourages the public to answer the Salvation Army’s appeal. Donations of canned goods, shelf-stable pantry items like milk, oatmeal, and tea, or financial contributions can make a direct difference. Items can be dropped off at the North Street Citadel Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.

About Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, D’USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 163 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs approximately 8,000, operates production facilities in 10 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit http://www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Kitty Broihier

My friend and fellow Guiding Stars blogging colleague, Allison Stowell, and I recently returned from the world’s largest dietitian conference, the annual conference of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. We listened and learned from a variety of presentations and events, and tasted our way through many product exhibits (our favorite part).

There’s a lot to learn from talking to food company representatives. Food manufacturers and trade boards stay current on trends to keep up with (or get ahead of) their competitors. Spending time with the folks working the expo usually reveals what food and nutrition trends are coming next. Here is a taste of the trends we see taking shape for 2026.

Protein and Fiber Team Up

For the past couple of years, protein has dominated new product introductions in the “healthy foods” market. Consumers are certainly still interested in the protein content of their food and overall diet, and food manufacturers and their marketing teams aren’t letting go of protein as a selling point yet, but this year, fiber is finally getting its fair share of the spotlight. For appetite control and weight management in particular, protein and fiber are a great team. They both impact satiety hormones, and hang out longer in the digestive tract, thereby contributing to a sense of fullness. Woven into this trend is a great opportunity for plant-forward brands to highlight the fact that both protein and fiber are naturally present in their products. These include protein bars, snack foods, and vegetarian protein powders (dairy-based powders are generally devoid of fiber).

GLP-1 Medications Impacting Products and Priorities

Appetite-reducing glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist medications (GLP-1s) are already immensely popular for managing diabetes/blood sugar levels and weight. Naturally, these powerful drugs are causing changes in the food and nutrition landscape. For example, according to a report by KPMG, the average GLP-1 user is spending roughly 31% less on food monthly. And consuming an estimated 21% fewer calories annually than before using the medications. That large decrease in food consumption means these consumers are prioritizing smaller portions. As a result, food manufacturers are racing to highlight their portion-controlled offerings with “GLP-1 friendly” label callouts.

Nutrient needs, such as for protein, can be higher in those who are actively losing weight. This gives food companies the added challenge of packing more nutrition into smaller portions. GLP-1 medication users also need to focus on hydration (the sense of thirst can be diminished) and fiber (constipation is a common side effect). To that end, the newer, boosted beverages and functional sodas may fit the bill nicely. And as we’ve all seen, more of them show up on the shelves every day. Look for more single-serve beverage options with added ingredients like adaptogens, probiotics, fiber, and other nutrients. Snack options that capitalize on the win-wins of protein plus fiber are good choices too.

Gut Health Goes Mainstream

Gone are the days when talking about your digestive system’s functioning was reserved for the doctor’s office. Conditions like IBS, lactose intolerance, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and their symptoms are getting more attention in the media and also by the food industry. The expo floor showcased plenty of products created to support healthy gut function and address gut-related conditions. There are now more fermented food options and a wider variety of foods that tout ingredients that specifically support the gut microbiome (like pre-, pro- and post-biotics).

Keeping the gut happy also includes removing substances that might upset things, like artificial sweeteners, some emulsifiers, and certain fibers. (FYI, Guiding Stars updated its guidance around artificial sweeteners in 2024.) Increased dialogue around gut function (and results) and destigmatization of the digestive system are developments that dietitians love to see!

Keeping It Simple, Real, and Whole

Highlighting whole food ingredients and limiting the number of ingredients in food products are trends that started a while ago, but they seem to really be hitting their stride now. This might be due to the extra attention on the role of ultra-processed foods lately. Or maybe because life seems complicated right now and simple food feels like an antidote. Whatever the cause, we’re here for it.

Minimalist ingredient lists aren’t being put forth as “cleaner” per se, but rather as a return to “real food.” The pendulum is swinging away from over-fortified, over-packaged, and over-hyped products (lookin’ at you, pumped-up protein bars and snack foods). These days, when it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not, enjoying a simple cracker that has just five ingredients feels reassuring, even comforting. Don’t get me wrong, these foods aren’t boring. Instead, they allow quality ingredients to shine and remind us that traditional recipes and whole foods will always deserve a place at the table.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Image by Freepik

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Kitty Broihier

My friend and fellow Guiding Stars blogging colleague, Allison Stowell, and I recently returned from the world’s largest dietitian conference, the annual conference of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. We listened and learned from a variety of presentations and events, and tasted our way through many product exhibits (our favorite part).

There’s a lot to learn from talking to food company representatives. Food manufacturers and trade boards stay current on trends to keep up with (or get ahead of) their competitors. Spending time with the folks working the expo usually reveals what food and nutrition trends are coming next. Here is a taste of the trends we see taking shape for 2026.

Protein and Fiber Team Up

For the past couple of years, protein has dominated new product introductions in the “healthy foods” market. Consumers are certainly still interested in the protein content of their food and overall diet, and food manufacturers and their marketing teams aren’t letting go of protein as a selling point yet, but this year, fiber is finally getting its fair share of the spotlight. For appetite control and weight management in particular, protein and fiber are a great team. They both impact satiety hormones, and hang out longer in the digestive tract, thereby contributing to a sense of fullness. Woven into this trend is a great opportunity for plant-forward brands to highlight the fact that both protein and fiber are naturally present in their products. These include protein bars, snack foods, and vegetarian protein powders (dairy-based powders are generally devoid of fiber).

GLP-1 Medications Impacting Products and Priorities

Appetite-reducing glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist medications (GLP-1s) are already immensely popular for managing diabetes/blood sugar levels and weight. Naturally, these powerful drugs are causing changes in the food and nutrition landscape. For example, according to a report by KPMG, the average GLP-1 user is spending roughly 31% less on food monthly. And consuming an estimated 21% fewer calories annually than before using the medications. That large decrease in food consumption means these consumers are prioritizing smaller portions. As a result, food manufacturers are racing to highlight their portion-controlled offerings with “GLP-1 friendly” label callouts.

Nutrient needs, such as for protein, can be higher in those who are actively losing weight. This gives food companies the added challenge of packing more nutrition into smaller portions. GLP-1 medication users also need to focus on hydration (the sense of thirst can be diminished) and fiber (constipation is a common side effect). To that end, the newer, boosted beverages and functional sodas may fit the bill nicely. And as we’ve all seen, more of them show up on the shelves every day. Look for more single-serve beverage options with added ingredients like adaptogens, probiotics, fiber, and other nutrients. Snack options that capitalize on the win-wins of protein plus fiber are good choices too.

Gut Health Goes Mainstream

Gone are the days when talking about your digestive system’s functioning was reserved for the doctor’s office. Conditions like IBS, lactose intolerance, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and their symptoms are getting more attention in the media and also by the food industry. The expo floor showcased plenty of products created to support healthy gut function and address gut-related conditions. There are now more fermented food options and a wider variety of foods that tout ingredients that specifically support the gut microbiome (like pre-, pro- and post-biotics).

Keeping the gut happy also includes removing substances that might upset things, like artificial sweeteners, some emulsifiers, and certain fibers. (FYI, Guiding Stars updated its guidance around artificial sweeteners in 2024.) Increased dialogue around gut function (and results) and destigmatization of the digestive system are developments that dietitians love to see!

Keeping It Simple, Real, and Whole

Highlighting whole food ingredients and limiting the number of ingredients in food products are trends that started a while ago, but they seem to really be hitting their stride now. This might be due to the extra attention on the role of ultra-processed foods lately. Or maybe because life seems complicated right now and simple food feels like an antidote. Whatever the cause, we’re here for it.

Minimalist ingredient lists aren’t being put forth as “cleaner” per se, but rather as a return to “real food.” The pendulum is swinging away from over-fortified, over-packaged, and over-hyped products (lookin’ at you, pumped-up protein bars and snack foods). These days, when it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not, enjoying a simple cracker that has just five ingredients feels reassuring, even comforting. Don’t get me wrong, these foods aren’t boring. Instead, they allow quality ingredients to shine and remind us that traditional recipes and whole foods will always deserve a place at the table.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Image by Freepik

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Kitty Broihier

My friend and fellow Guiding Stars blogging colleague, Allison Stowell, and I recently returned from the world’s largest dietitian conference, the annual conference of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. We listened and learned from a variety of presentations and events, and tasted our way through many product exhibits (our favorite part).

There’s a lot to learn from talking to food company representatives. Food manufacturers and trade boards stay current on trends to keep up with (or get ahead of) their competitors. Spending time with the folks working the expo usually reveals what food and nutrition trends are coming next. Here is a taste of the trends we see taking shape for 2026.

Protein and Fiber Team Up

For the past couple of years, protein has dominated new product introductions in the “healthy foods” market. Consumers are certainly still interested in the protein content of their food and overall diet, and food manufacturers and their marketing teams aren’t letting go of protein as a selling point yet, but this year, fiber is finally getting its fair share of the spotlight. For appetite control and weight management in particular, protein and fiber are a great team. They both impact satiety hormones, and hang out longer in the digestive tract, thereby contributing to a sense of fullness. Woven into this trend is a great opportunity for plant-forward brands to highlight the fact that both protein and fiber are naturally present in their products. These include protein bars, snack foods, and vegetarian protein powders (dairy-based powders are generally devoid of fiber).

GLP-1 Medications Impacting Products and Priorities

Appetite-reducing glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist medications (GLP-1s) are already immensely popular for managing diabetes/blood sugar levels and weight. Naturally, these powerful drugs are causing changes in the food and nutrition landscape. For example, according to a report by KPMG, the average GLP-1 user is spending roughly 31% less on food monthly. And consuming an estimated 21% fewer calories annually than before using the medications. That large decrease in food consumption means these consumers are prioritizing smaller portions. As a result, food manufacturers are racing to highlight their portion-controlled offerings with “GLP-1 friendly” label callouts.

Nutrient needs, such as for protein, can be higher in those who are actively losing weight. This gives food companies the added challenge of packing more nutrition into smaller portions. GLP-1 medication users also need to focus on hydration (the sense of thirst can be diminished) and fiber (constipation is a common side effect). To that end, the newer, boosted beverages and functional sodas may fit the bill nicely. And as we’ve all seen, more of them show up on the shelves every day. Look for more single-serve beverage options with added ingredients like adaptogens, probiotics, fiber, and other nutrients. Snack options that capitalize on the win-wins of protein plus fiber are good choices too.

Gut Health Goes Mainstream

Gone are the days when talking about your digestive system’s functioning was reserved for the doctor’s office. Conditions like IBS, lactose intolerance, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and their symptoms are getting more attention in the media and also by the food industry. The expo floor showcased plenty of products created to support healthy gut function and address gut-related conditions. There are now more fermented food options and a wider variety of foods that tout ingredients that specifically support the gut microbiome (like pre-, pro- and post-biotics).

Keeping the gut happy also includes removing substances that might upset things, like artificial sweeteners, some emulsifiers, and certain fibers. (FYI, Guiding Stars updated its guidance around artificial sweeteners in 2024.) Increased dialogue around gut function (and results) and destigmatization of the digestive system are developments that dietitians love to see!

Keeping It Simple, Real, and Whole

Highlighting whole food ingredients and limiting the number of ingredients in food products are trends that started a while ago, but they seem to really be hitting their stride now. This might be due to the extra attention on the role of ultra-processed foods lately. Or maybe because life seems complicated right now and simple food feels like an antidote. Whatever the cause, we’re here for it.

Minimalist ingredient lists aren’t being put forth as “cleaner” per se, but rather as a return to “real food.” The pendulum is swinging away from over-fortified, over-packaged, and over-hyped products (lookin’ at you, pumped-up protein bars and snack foods). These days, when it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not, enjoying a simple cracker that has just five ingredients feels reassuring, even comforting. Don’t get me wrong, these foods aren’t boring. Instead, they allow quality ingredients to shine and remind us that traditional recipes and whole foods will always deserve a place at the table.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Image by Freepik

KeyBank Foundation has gifted $40,000 to Rethink Food to support meal-making efforts through the Neighborhood Meals Program—an effort to produce and distribute hot, nutritious and culturally celebrated meals to food-insecure communities across New York City.

“Everyone needs help from time to time, often during times help feels furthest away,” said John Manginelli, Hudson Valley/Metro NY President, KeyBank. “To support Rethink Food and help them feed people in our community who are food insecure is a great way to promote KeyBank’s commitment to help people live well and fulfill their promise.”

The KeyBank Foundation grant will provide approximately 7,400 meals.

“KeyBank’s support provides the funds needed to prepare and distribute nutritious meals, as well as opens up economic development opportunities for our partners and their staff, amplifying our impact beyond mere meal provision,” said Matt Jozwiak, founder and ceo, Rethink Food. “In addition to strengthening our operational capacity, this grant will help us expand our reach to more vulnerable populations.”

Founded in 2017, Rethink Food has converted over 3 million pounds of donated food into meals, distributed more than 33 million meals to the food-insecure and directed more than $147 million to local restaurants. Through its own Sustainable Community Kitchen, the organization currently delivers over 10,000 meals per week across New York City.

“Food insecurity affects 47 million people in the United States while 42% of our national food supply goes uneaten. Rethink Food exists to bridge that gap and strengthen connections in our food system by partnering with restaurants to provide meals for communities in need,” said Jozwiak.

Since 2023, Keybank has donated approximately $100,000 to Rethink Food, supporting the NYC Restaurant Program and sponsoring the 8-year anniversary event and 2023 Marathon Sign-Making Party.

For more information about the organization and making donations, visit the Rethink Food website at rethinkfood.org or call 212-364-7040.

KeyBank Foundation has gifted $40,000 to Rethink Food to support meal-making efforts through the Neighborhood Meals Program—an effort to produce and distribute hot, nutritious and culturally celebrated meals to food-insecure communities across New York City.

“Everyone needs help from time to time, often during times help feels furthest away,” said John Manginelli, Hudson Valley/Metro NY President, KeyBank. “To support Rethink Food and help them feed people in our community who are food insecure is a great way to promote KeyBank’s commitment to help people live well and fulfill their promise.”

The KeyBank Foundation grant will provide approximately 7,400 meals.

“KeyBank’s support provides the funds needed to prepare and distribute nutritious meals, as well as opens up economic development opportunities for our partners and their staff, amplifying our impact beyond mere meal provision,” said Matt Jozwiak, founder and ceo, Rethink Food. “In addition to strengthening our operational capacity, this grant will help us expand our reach to more vulnerable populations.”

Founded in 2017, Rethink Food has converted over 3 million pounds of donated food into meals, distributed more than 33 million meals to the food-insecure and directed more than $147 million to local restaurants. Through its own Sustainable Community Kitchen, the organization currently delivers over 10,000 meals per week across New York City.

“Food insecurity affects 47 million people in the United States while 42% of our national food supply goes uneaten. Rethink Food exists to bridge that gap and strengthen connections in our food system by partnering with restaurants to provide meals for communities in need,” said Jozwiak.

Since 2023, Keybank has donated approximately $100,000 to Rethink Food, supporting the NYC Restaurant Program and sponsoring the 8-year anniversary event and 2023 Marathon Sign-Making Party.

For more information about the organization and making donations, visit the Rethink Food website at rethinkfood.org or call 212-364-7040.

KeyBank Foundation has gifted $40,000 to Rethink Food to support meal-making efforts through the Neighborhood Meals Program—an effort to produce and distribute hot, nutritious and culturally celebrated meals to food-insecure communities across New York City.

“Everyone needs help from time to time, often during times help feels furthest away,” said John Manginelli, Hudson Valley/Metro NY President, KeyBank. “To support Rethink Food and help them feed people in our community who are food insecure is a great way to promote KeyBank’s commitment to help people live well and fulfill their promise.”

The KeyBank Foundation grant will provide approximately 7,400 meals.

“KeyBank’s support provides the funds needed to prepare and distribute nutritious meals, as well as opens up economic development opportunities for our partners and their staff, amplifying our impact beyond mere meal provision,” said Matt Jozwiak, founder and ceo, Rethink Food. “In addition to strengthening our operational capacity, this grant will help us expand our reach to more vulnerable populations.”

Founded in 2017, Rethink Food has converted over 3 million pounds of donated food into meals, distributed more than 33 million meals to the food-insecure and directed more than $147 million to local restaurants. Through its own Sustainable Community Kitchen, the organization currently delivers over 10,000 meals per week across New York City.

“Food insecurity affects 47 million people in the United States while 42% of our national food supply goes uneaten. Rethink Food exists to bridge that gap and strengthen connections in our food system by partnering with restaurants to provide meals for communities in need,” said Jozwiak.

Since 2023, Keybank has donated approximately $100,000 to Rethink Food, supporting the NYC Restaurant Program and sponsoring the 8-year anniversary event and 2023 Marathon Sign-Making Party.

For more information about the organization and making donations, visit the Rethink Food website at rethinkfood.org or call 212-364-7040.

Originally published by Mastercard

This blog post is by Renata Żukowska and Emilia Bartosiewicz-Brożyna from Fundacja LBC Business Women Foundation (LBC). LBC implements the GO DIGITAL program in Poland in partnership with Mastercard Strive, a program from the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, and with the support of the Polish Development Fund (PFR).

Women running small businesses are changing their approach to digital technology. Instead of expensive transformations, they’re choosing concrete step-by-step actions, supported by other women and well-chosen tools. The result? Time savings, more customers, and a greater sense of security. These are some of the findings from the LBC Foundation’s GO DIGITAL report, a first-of-its-kind in Poland that reveals the new face of digitalization, showing how women entrepreneurs are embracing digital transformation and how real support helps them make concrete changes.

The report is part of the GO DIGITAL social campaign and program, carried out by the LBC Business Women Foundation with support from Mastercard Strive and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. GO DIGITAL proved not only to be an impetus for developing digital skills but also a factor in changing business habits and strategies. More than 330,000 women have learned about the GO DIGITAL program since its launch, and more than 50,000 women responded to the resources and content shared. A further 2,500 women received support through GO DIGITAL. The program was groundbreaking not only technologically, but mentally. Female participants stopped seeing digitalization as reserved for big companies and IT departments. They realised that implementations can be simple, accessible, and tailor-made for micro-businesses.

This blog post takes a closer look at some of the key findings and outcomes of GO DIGITAL in Poland.

What did the report show?

Overall, digital transformation is no longer seen as costly and difficult for women-led small businesses. Women began testing and implementing tools for invoicing, customer communication, sales management, and social media management on their own. (See Figure 1.)

1. As many as 62% of female participants have increased their digital skills, and 59% are now more likely to use online tools. Further, one in three female business owners has implemented at least three recommended tools.
2. 57% of participants saved time, 27% reduced costs, and 49% saw an increase in customers (38% considered it significant). The ability to provide implementation support and to connect with a community of women at a similar stage proved critical.
3. As many as 32% of participants used three or more digital tools, such as social media management applications, CRMs, webinar platforms, or password managers. 65% of the women introduced specific recommendations from GO DIGITAL into their companies, covering not only technology, but also work organisation or customer service.
4. 84% of female participants rated the program’s value positively, highlighting the practicality of the content, clarity of the message, and access to experts. Importantly, the effects continued even after the campaign ended, with 86% of women continuing to use digital tools (46% regularly, 38% occasionally).

Beyond the numbers: How women gained tools, agency, and a new way of thinking about technology

Digitalization is not just about technology — it is also about changing thinking and building internal readiness. The GO DIGITAL program helped participants to overcome fear, gain courage, and believe in themselves as leaders of digital change.

For many women, GO DIGITAL offered them a sense that, for the first time, digital technology was for them too. “This program has emboldened me. Now I approach digitalization in a completely different way,” explained one participant. It was important for women to be able to work at their own pace, without pressure — with expert support and plain language.

GO digital also dispelled stereotypes and fears previously held by participants. It promoted digital technology to women, highlighting its importance regardless of age or business profile. To quote one participant: “I realised that I can do it myself — it can be learned.”

Offering implementation support to participants, such as individual consultations, pre-selected digital tools, and a sense of community of women who shared their experiences, was key, leading one participant to explain that, “without the support, I wouldn’t have known where to start.”

The GO Digital community was an important element, where women shared experiences, supported, and inspired each other. As Renata Żukowska, Vice President of the LBC Foundation, explained, “GO DIGITAL is a space where digitalization ceases to be alien, and starts to be a tool for everyday work and development.”

What’s next for GO DIGITAL

The GO DIGITAL report makes it clear: the biggest barrier for women participants to adopt digital tools was not a lack of knowledge, but the difficulty of implementation. Women knew what to do, but they lacked time, support, and a framework for action.

This is why the LBC Foundation recommends:

• Implementing mentoring with digital mentors,
• Designing learning paths tailored to the level of proficiency,
• Offering a mandatory training module on cybersecurity,
• Driving participant engagement through implementation reminders after 3 months.

These activities are designed to help women not just learn about digitalization, but implement in stages, at their own pace, with real support. This moves the needle from knowledge to action and determines the effectiveness of future programs.

The LBC Foundation, Mastercard Strive, and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth believe that digital transformation in women’s small businesses is not a fad, but a necessity. When accompanied by trust, support, and space for growth, campaigns like GO DIGITAL can be effective, even for micro-businesses.

Read the full report: https://ladybusiness.pl/godigital-raport/

Continue reading here.

Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.

 

Originally published by Mastercard

This blog post is by Renata Żukowska and Emilia Bartosiewicz-Brożyna from Fundacja LBC Business Women Foundation (LBC). LBC implements the GO DIGITAL program in Poland in partnership with Mastercard Strive, a program from the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, and with the support of the Polish Development Fund (PFR).

Women running small businesses are changing their approach to digital technology. Instead of expensive transformations, they’re choosing concrete step-by-step actions, supported by other women and well-chosen tools. The result? Time savings, more customers, and a greater sense of security. These are some of the findings from the LBC Foundation’s GO DIGITAL report, a first-of-its-kind in Poland that reveals the new face of digitalization, showing how women entrepreneurs are embracing digital transformation and how real support helps them make concrete changes.

The report is part of the GO DIGITAL social campaign and program, carried out by the LBC Business Women Foundation with support from Mastercard Strive and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. GO DIGITAL proved not only to be an impetus for developing digital skills but also a factor in changing business habits and strategies. More than 330,000 women have learned about the GO DIGITAL program since its launch, and more than 50,000 women responded to the resources and content shared. A further 2,500 women received support through GO DIGITAL. The program was groundbreaking not only technologically, but mentally. Female participants stopped seeing digitalization as reserved for big companies and IT departments. They realised that implementations can be simple, accessible, and tailor-made for micro-businesses.

This blog post takes a closer look at some of the key findings and outcomes of GO DIGITAL in Poland.

What did the report show?

Overall, digital transformation is no longer seen as costly and difficult for women-led small businesses. Women began testing and implementing tools for invoicing, customer communication, sales management, and social media management on their own. (See Figure 1.)

1. As many as 62% of female participants have increased their digital skills, and 59% are now more likely to use online tools. Further, one in three female business owners has implemented at least three recommended tools.
2. 57% of participants saved time, 27% reduced costs, and 49% saw an increase in customers (38% considered it significant). The ability to provide implementation support and to connect with a community of women at a similar stage proved critical.
3. As many as 32% of participants used three or more digital tools, such as social media management applications, CRMs, webinar platforms, or password managers. 65% of the women introduced specific recommendations from GO DIGITAL into their companies, covering not only technology, but also work organisation or customer service.
4. 84% of female participants rated the program’s value positively, highlighting the practicality of the content, clarity of the message, and access to experts. Importantly, the effects continued even after the campaign ended, with 86% of women continuing to use digital tools (46% regularly, 38% occasionally).

Beyond the numbers: How women gained tools, agency, and a new way of thinking about technology

Digitalization is not just about technology — it is also about changing thinking and building internal readiness. The GO DIGITAL program helped participants to overcome fear, gain courage, and believe in themselves as leaders of digital change.

For many women, GO DIGITAL offered them a sense that, for the first time, digital technology was for them too. “This program has emboldened me. Now I approach digitalization in a completely different way,” explained one participant. It was important for women to be able to work at their own pace, without pressure — with expert support and plain language.

GO digital also dispelled stereotypes and fears previously held by participants. It promoted digital technology to women, highlighting its importance regardless of age or business profile. To quote one participant: “I realised that I can do it myself — it can be learned.”

Offering implementation support to participants, such as individual consultations, pre-selected digital tools, and a sense of community of women who shared their experiences, was key, leading one participant to explain that, “without the support, I wouldn’t have known where to start.”

The GO Digital community was an important element, where women shared experiences, supported, and inspired each other. As Renata Żukowska, Vice President of the LBC Foundation, explained, “GO DIGITAL is a space where digitalization ceases to be alien, and starts to be a tool for everyday work and development.”

What’s next for GO DIGITAL

The GO DIGITAL report makes it clear: the biggest barrier for women participants to adopt digital tools was not a lack of knowledge, but the difficulty of implementation. Women knew what to do, but they lacked time, support, and a framework for action.

This is why the LBC Foundation recommends:

• Implementing mentoring with digital mentors,
• Designing learning paths tailored to the level of proficiency,
• Offering a mandatory training module on cybersecurity,
• Driving participant engagement through implementation reminders after 3 months.

These activities are designed to help women not just learn about digitalization, but implement in stages, at their own pace, with real support. This moves the needle from knowledge to action and determines the effectiveness of future programs.

The LBC Foundation, Mastercard Strive, and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth believe that digital transformation in women’s small businesses is not a fad, but a necessity. When accompanied by trust, support, and space for growth, campaigns like GO DIGITAL can be effective, even for micro-businesses.

Read the full report: https://ladybusiness.pl/godigital-raport/

Continue reading here.

Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.

 

Originally published by Mastercard

This blog post is by Renata Żukowska and Emilia Bartosiewicz-Brożyna from Fundacja LBC Business Women Foundation (LBC). LBC implements the GO DIGITAL program in Poland in partnership with Mastercard Strive, a program from the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, and with the support of the Polish Development Fund (PFR).

Women running small businesses are changing their approach to digital technology. Instead of expensive transformations, they’re choosing concrete step-by-step actions, supported by other women and well-chosen tools. The result? Time savings, more customers, and a greater sense of security. These are some of the findings from the LBC Foundation’s GO DIGITAL report, a first-of-its-kind in Poland that reveals the new face of digitalization, showing how women entrepreneurs are embracing digital transformation and how real support helps them make concrete changes.

The report is part of the GO DIGITAL social campaign and program, carried out by the LBC Business Women Foundation with support from Mastercard Strive and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. GO DIGITAL proved not only to be an impetus for developing digital skills but also a factor in changing business habits and strategies. More than 330,000 women have learned about the GO DIGITAL program since its launch, and more than 50,000 women responded to the resources and content shared. A further 2,500 women received support through GO DIGITAL. The program was groundbreaking not only technologically, but mentally. Female participants stopped seeing digitalization as reserved for big companies and IT departments. They realised that implementations can be simple, accessible, and tailor-made for micro-businesses.

This blog post takes a closer look at some of the key findings and outcomes of GO DIGITAL in Poland.

What did the report show?

Overall, digital transformation is no longer seen as costly and difficult for women-led small businesses. Women began testing and implementing tools for invoicing, customer communication, sales management, and social media management on their own. (See Figure 1.)

1. As many as 62% of female participants have increased their digital skills, and 59% are now more likely to use online tools. Further, one in three female business owners has implemented at least three recommended tools.
2. 57% of participants saved time, 27% reduced costs, and 49% saw an increase in customers (38% considered it significant). The ability to provide implementation support and to connect with a community of women at a similar stage proved critical.
3. As many as 32% of participants used three or more digital tools, such as social media management applications, CRMs, webinar platforms, or password managers. 65% of the women introduced specific recommendations from GO DIGITAL into their companies, covering not only technology, but also work organisation or customer service.
4. 84% of female participants rated the program’s value positively, highlighting the practicality of the content, clarity of the message, and access to experts. Importantly, the effects continued even after the campaign ended, with 86% of women continuing to use digital tools (46% regularly, 38% occasionally).

Beyond the numbers: How women gained tools, agency, and a new way of thinking about technology

Digitalization is not just about technology — it is also about changing thinking and building internal readiness. The GO DIGITAL program helped participants to overcome fear, gain courage, and believe in themselves as leaders of digital change.

For many women, GO DIGITAL offered them a sense that, for the first time, digital technology was for them too. “This program has emboldened me. Now I approach digitalization in a completely different way,” explained one participant. It was important for women to be able to work at their own pace, without pressure — with expert support and plain language.

GO digital also dispelled stereotypes and fears previously held by participants. It promoted digital technology to women, highlighting its importance regardless of age or business profile. To quote one participant: “I realised that I can do it myself — it can be learned.”

Offering implementation support to participants, such as individual consultations, pre-selected digital tools, and a sense of community of women who shared their experiences, was key, leading one participant to explain that, “without the support, I wouldn’t have known where to start.”

The GO Digital community was an important element, where women shared experiences, supported, and inspired each other. As Renata Żukowska, Vice President of the LBC Foundation, explained, “GO DIGITAL is a space where digitalization ceases to be alien, and starts to be a tool for everyday work and development.”

What’s next for GO DIGITAL

The GO DIGITAL report makes it clear: the biggest barrier for women participants to adopt digital tools was not a lack of knowledge, but the difficulty of implementation. Women knew what to do, but they lacked time, support, and a framework for action.

This is why the LBC Foundation recommends:

• Implementing mentoring with digital mentors,
• Designing learning paths tailored to the level of proficiency,
• Offering a mandatory training module on cybersecurity,
• Driving participant engagement through implementation reminders after 3 months.

These activities are designed to help women not just learn about digitalization, but implement in stages, at their own pace, with real support. This moves the needle from knowledge to action and determines the effectiveness of future programs.

The LBC Foundation, Mastercard Strive, and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth believe that digital transformation in women’s small businesses is not a fad, but a necessity. When accompanied by trust, support, and space for growth, campaigns like GO DIGITAL can be effective, even for micro-businesses.

Read the full report: https://ladybusiness.pl/godigital-raport/

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