In the heart of Europe, just 15 kilometers south of Brussels, lies Waterloo, home to Mastercard’s European headquarters and a cornerstone of its commitment to digital innovation. Since 1965, Mastercard has evolved from a payment technology provider into a trusted partner for Europe’s digital transformation. Today, Belgium is not just a location, it’s a strategic anchor for resilience, innovation, and trust.
Headquarters with a Purpose
Mastercard’s Waterloo office is a decision-making hub for European strategy. It hosts teams across product development, sales and account management, legal, HR, finance, fraud management and cybersecurity, including global and European executives. It stands at the helm of Mastercard’s European offices in nearly 30 countries, making it one of the few global tech companies with a meaningful decision center in Belgium.
The recently renovated campus reflects Mastercard’s commitment to collaboration and innovation. Designed to foster cross-functional teamwork, it serves as a launchpad for initiatives that support Europe’s digital economy, from cybersecurity and SME empowerment to inclusive payment solutions.
Supporting SMEs and Local Innovations
Belgium’s vibrant SME ecosystem is central to Mastercard’s competitiveness strategy. Through the Strive EU Innovation Fund, launched in 2024, Mastercard supports small businesses with funding, mentorship, and technical assistance. Belgium has already produced standout success stories, such as Cresco Security, a cybersecurity firm recognized for its ethical hacking solutions tailored to SMEs.
In addition to these grants, Mastercard has committed to launching a free cybersecurity education program for more than 10 million European SMEs, helping them build resilience in an increasingly digital economy. In Belgium, we are also looking to host a lighthouse program designed to accelerate startup innovation, offering selected ventures access to Mastercard’s ecosystem, technical support, and visibility across Europe.
Mastercard also partners with local organizations like STIB, De Lijn, Edenred, Worldline, and Itsme to deliver tailored payment solutions and digitalization programs. These collaborations reinforce Belgium’s role as a testbed for scalable innovation.
Building Infrastructure for Europe
Mastercard’s investment in Belgium is a testament to its belief in European resilience. The Waterloo headquarters play a critical role in localizing infrastructure and ensuring continuity of service across the continent, resulting in reduced vulnerability and greater resilience to natural or geopolitical events. This aligns with Mastercard’s broader European strategy, which includes the establishment of 3 new data centers in France.
Home of The European Cyber Resilience Centre
In 2024, Mastercard inaugurated its European Cyber Resilience Centre (ECRC) in Waterloo, a state-of-the-art facility designed to monitor, prevent and protect from cyber threats and enhance digital resilience across the continent. The ECRC collaborates with national and regional cyber intelligence centers, law enforcement agencies, and industry bodies to protect consumers and businesses from increasingly sophisticated cybercrime.
As Michael Miebach, Mastercard’s CEO, stated during the opening:
“This centre will bring together the brightest minds from business, government and other sectors to stay ahead of threats and make the digital world as secure as possible.”
To further bolster its capabilities, Mastercard acquired Recorded Future, a leading European-rooted threat intelligence firm, reinforcing Belgium’s role in the company’s global security strategy.
Why Belgium Matters
Belgium offers Mastercard a unique blend of strategic location, regulatory alignment, talent, and innovation. It’s where European decisions are made, where cybersecurity is strengthened, and where small businesses are empowered.
“Belgium is not just where we operate, it’s where we lead. From Waterloo, we shape Mastercard’s European strategy, drive innovation, and build trust in the digital economy.”
Mastercard in Belgium
Mastercard’s journey in Belgium began in 1968, through its partnership with Eurocard, marking the start of its European expansion. Today, Belgium remains a cornerstone of Mastercard’s European operations.
Mastercard is proud to have hundreds of talented professionals working across various functions in Belgium, contributing to global and regional initiatives. President of Mastercard Europe is based here, alongside many global and regional executives, making Belgium a key decision-making and innovation hub within the company.
In 2024, Mastercard reinforced its commitment to cybersecurity by opening the European Cyber Resilience Centre in Belgium. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a hub for collaboration between public and private sectors, enhancing the region’s ability to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats. Belgium is also a key market for Mastercard’s product evolution, including the replacement of Maestro cards with Debit Mastercard, offering consumers safer, smarter, and more seamless payment experiences. With a focus on digital transformation, Mastercard Belgium supports local fintechs, small businesses, and public sector initiatives, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient digital economy.
Mastercard in Belgium: A Strategic Anchor for Europe’s Digital Future