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Fiserv, a global leader in payments and financial technology, fosters innovation and excellence in areas like account processing, digital banking solutions, card issuer processing, network services, payments, e-commerce, and Clover® cloud-based point-of-sale and business management. 

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Fiserv’s commitment extends to supporting small, diverse-owned businesses that were affected by the pandemic through the Back2Business programme. With a pledge of $50 million, the programme provides financial grants, mentorship, business coaching, and access to technology and networking opportunities. Since its inception in 2020, over 1,600 small, diverse-owned businesses in the U.S. and U.K. have received grants and support, reflecting Fiserv’s dedication to giving back to communities and promoting economic growth. 

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“Back2Business reflects our commitment to be a force of good in the communities where we live and work”- Neil Wilcox, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility

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MSDUK Events and Networking Opportunities 

Fiserv granted £8,000 to The Matcha Yaad, an EMB certified by MSDUK, through its Back2Business initiative. In a brief interview with Phoebe Nicol, Global Strategic Sourcing Data Analyst Fiserv, the exploration focused on their discovery of The Matcha Yaad and the collaborative journey they undertook to secure the Back to Business grant. 

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During the Business Opportunity Day 2023 in June in London, Fiserv and The Matcha Yaad crossed paths with each other when Phoebe unexpectedly found herself with an open slot due to the absence of a scheduled supplier for their 1-2-1 session. Monique Farquharson, the founder of The Matcha Yaad grabbed the opportunity to network and had a conversation with the Fiserv team that left a lasting impression on both the parties.  

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Nomination for Back2Business Grant 

Following the event, Monique and The Matcha Yaad stood out as standout collaborators, gaining internal momentum within Fiserv. As discussions unfolded regarding the back-to-business grant, The Matcha Yaad proved to be a strong recommendation.  

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Phoebe, who was part of Fiserv’s employee resource group, focused on working with young professionals and entrepreneurs with a kickstart attitude in line with their company values. When discussions about the back-to-business grant began, she thought Monique would be an excellent fit and aided her with the application process. Monique and her business eventually won the grant. The networking at MSDUK sparked a promising connection, laying the foundation for a fruitful partnership between Fiserv and The Matcha Yaad. 
 
What prompted Phoebe to nominate The Matcha Yaad for the Back2Business grant was their admiration for Monique’s entrepreneurial skills and her overall personality. Monique’s decision to move to Japan for two years to study her craft, even when it wasn’t widely popular at the time, deeply inspired them. They found her dedication, willingness to take risks, and the bravery she exhibited during that period to be truly commendable. 

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Working with The Matcha Yaad 

Regarding their experience working with The Matcha Yaad, Phoebe expressed a personal connection due to her preference for caffeine but not being a fan of coffee or tea. The convenience and appeal of The Matcha Yaad’s beverages, particularly for those with busy schedules, resonated with her. She appreciated the product as a better alternative, noting its fruity flavor and departure from the bitterness often associated with coffee. 

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From their in-person meetings to email interactions, Monique’s bubbly and enthusiastic approach to her business stood out. Phoebe admired Monique’s authenticity and unique character, describing her as “Unique, Monique.” 

 
Working with MSDUK 

“Working with MSDUK, you really bring to life the new talent that’s out there, all that innovation that’s out there. And I think it’s just a great spark to have in the business community.” 

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Reflecting on her experience with MSDUK, Phoebe, as a young professional in the early stages of her supply chain management career, found working with MSDUK to be more than ideal. She considered it a dream opportunity and emphasised the passion it instilled in her to strive for continuous commitment for diversity and innovation.