Mastercard Launches Crypto Partner Program

Background on Mastercard’s crypto strategy

Mastercard has steadily expanded its presence in the digital asset sector over the past several years. The company first entered the space in 2020 by supporting crypto-linked payment cards through partnerships with firms such as Wirex and Uphold. These integrations allowed users to spend cryptocurrencies while merchants continued receiving payments in fiat currency.

In the following years, Mastercard increased its blockchain involvement through multiple initiatives. The company collaborated with Circle in 2021 to support settlements using the USDC stablecoin. Later programs focused on accelerating blockchain innovation through startup accelerators and partnerships with infrastructure providers.

In 2024, Mastercard introduced Crypto Credential, a system designed to improve security and identity verification for blockchain transactions. The company also partnered with wallet providers to support self-custodial crypto debit cards, including a collaboration with MetaMask earlier in 2026.

These developments reflect Mastercard’s broader strategy of integrating blockchain capabilities into its existing payment infrastructure.

Mastercard Launches Crypto Partner Program

Mastercard Launches Crypto Partner Program to create a structured environment for collaboration across the digital asset industry. The initiative connects crypto-native companies, blockchain networks, fintech firms, and financial institutions to exchange knowledge and develop new payment solutions.

Rather than focusing on speculation or trading activity, the program emphasizes practical blockchain applications that can improve global financial infrastructure. Participants will collaborate with Mastercard to explore new technologies that combine blockchain programmability with the company’s global payment network.

Companies participating in the program

The program includes participation from several major organizations across both the crypto and financial sectors.

Notable participants include Binance, Ripple, Circle, Solana, Avalanche, Aptos, PayPal, Gemini, and Paxos. The diversity of the participants highlights the initiative’s goal of bridging blockchain ecosystems with established financial institutions.

These organizations represent different segments of the digital asset industry, including blockchain infrastructure, payment platforms, exchanges, and stablecoin issuers.

Focus on real-world blockchain payment applications

A key goal of the program is to identify real-world financial problems that blockchain technology can help solve.

One major focus area is cross-border payments. Traditional international transfers often involve multiple intermediaries and can take several days to settle. Blockchain systems can potentially reduce settlement times and improve transparency.

Another area of interest is business-to-business payments. Large corporate transfers often rely on legacy systems that are expensive and slow. Blockchain-based infrastructure may provide more efficient alternatives.

Global disbursements are also being explored as a potential application. These include payments made by companies, governments, or organizations to individuals across different regions.

How the Crypto Partner Program operates

The program operates as a collaborative network rather than a single product launch. Members will participate in working groups, technical discussions, and development initiatives focused on integrating blockchain technologies with Mastercard’s payment infrastructure.

Through this collaboration, participants can test new ideas, develop industry standards, and explore interoperability between blockchain networks and existing financial systems.

Mastercard will also use the program to better understand the evolving needs of the crypto industry while helping partners access its global payment network.