VPBank strives to support SMEs during pandemic

VPBank's headquarters. The bank has launched a range of programmes to support small and medium sized enterprises during the COVID-19 pandemic. — Photo courtesy of VPBank

HCM CITY — VPBank and Mastercard announced a partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) on Tuesday in HCM City with the aim of helping Vietnamese small-and-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) use cloud computing to modernise their businesses.

The deal is also expected to accelerate their SMEs’ renewal and reducing operating costs.

Under the plan, VPBank issued its Mastercard – VPBiz credit card for SMEs to implement payment for AWS’s cloud computing services. The Mastercard’s holders would receive preferential treatment and free technical support as well as consultancy from AWS and its partners.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused serious damage to businesses, especially SMEs, creating an urgent demand for digitalisation and shifting from traditional to online business models.

According to “The Asian Banker”, only 4.1 per cent of Vietnamese businesses use credit cards. 

The  VPBank MasterCard – VPBiz card holders will receive VNĐ2.3 million each for their AWS account. In addition, VTI, a partner of AWS would offer discounts of up to VNĐ70 million for card holders who use their consultancy services.

The offers would not only help SMEs gain success in shifting their business model  and using cloud computing but also benefit from the payment method.

VPBank’s customers could also receive offers from independent software vendors (ISV). The companies include DataBrain Company with six months free for FacePass Check-in, Kiu Global Company with one month free Kiu BMP business management software and L.E.T. JSC with three months free for Bitrix24 business administration software for real estate sector.

Customers can also enjoy training courses relating to skills in business from AWS Business Essential Day and AWS Technical Essential Day.

Đào Gia Hưng, deputy director of VPBank’s SME Department said the bank’s financial preferential programme has been launched in Việt Nam for the first time.

“The co-operation between VPBank and Amazon Web Service has been one of activities that specifies their targets in supporting SMEs," he said. 

"Vietnamese SMEs need to quickly recover after the pandemic. It is the reason that supports are vital to help them resolve current issues while preparing for new changes in the market.”

Winnie Wong, Mastercard Việt Nam’s Country Director said the co-operation would help Vietnamese SMEs enhance their potential.

VPBank has been one of pilot banks in supporting SMEs with a range of financial supports and others such as extending debts, restructuring debts and free online banking services as well as online training courses from famous specialists. — VNS