Running a business in today’s world is exciting but it’s also more complex than ever. Customers expect fast and flexible payment options, competition is fierce, and keeping track of cash flow can be overwhelming. For entrepreneurs and merchants in Mauritius, one question often comes up: How do I spend less time on admin and more on growing my business?
Spark Business by Absa is answering that question.
One app, any bank account, many ways to get paid
Launched as Mauritius’ first open-banking merchant app, Spark Business turns any smartphone into a light point-of-sale device. No bulky machines. No complicated setups. Just one app that makes it easy to get paid instantly, at low cost, in any bank account and in multiple ways:
- Accept payments through a universal all-in-one QR
- Tap & Pay directly on a mobile phone, no extra hardware needed
- Collect remote payments via SMS Pay
- Enable Global QR payments for tourists
This puts seamless, modern payment options in the hands of everyone - from a small family-run corner shop to a high-traffic retailer.
More than payments: a growth partner
What makes Spark Business stand out is not just the payments, but the tools it gives merchants to manage and grow their business. Within the app, you can:
- Record both cash and credit transactions for simpler reconciliations
- Track sales performance in real time through dashboards and transaction insights
- Create and manage outlets & staff user roles
- Send digital receipts instantly
- Receive real-time voice notifications on payment completion
The result? Fewer operational headaches, more visibility, and more time to focus on customers and strategy. A growing impact in Mauritius
Since its launch, Spark Business has processed over 200,000 transactions and is already trusted by over 500 businesses across the island. From retail shops and cafés to service providers and hospitality outlets, adoption has been diverse, proving that digital tools are not just for large companies.
By putting these capabilities in the hands of everyday entrepreneurs, Absa Mauritius is helping to formalise trade, improve cash flow cycles, and open new growth opportunities for small and medium businesses.
Recognised beyond borders
The impact of Spark Business has also been noticed internationally. In 2025 alone, the platform was honoured with six global awards including
1. Best Payments Platform Initiative - Africa
Middle East & Africa Innovation Awards 2025, The Digital Banker
2. Best New SME Product of the Year
Middle East & Africa Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2025, The Digital Banker
3. Best Smart Payment Solution by an SME Bank
Middle East & Africa Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2025, The Digital Banker
4. Outstanding Digital Innovation in SME - Africa
Middle East & Africa Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2025, The Digital Banker
5. Best Smart Payment Solution by an SME Bank
Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2025, The Digital Banker
6. Best Open Banking Initiative - Mauritius
Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2025, The Digital Banker
These accolades highlight Absa Mauritius’ leadership in creating digital-first solutions that resonate with real business needs.
Why this matters for you
As a business owner, the advantages are clear:
- Save money with instant, low-cost settlements into any account of their choice
- Save time with fewer reconciliations and streamlined operations
- Win more customers with multiple payment options
- Build resilience by moving towards digital payments that make your business more visible and credit-worthy
In short, Spark Business helps you run your business smarter, not harder.
The future of business banking in Mauritius
SMEs represent nearly 90% of businesses and 60% of employment in Africa. Alongside them, large enterprises continue to drive national growth and innovation. By equipping businesses of all sizes with digital rails like Spark Business, Absa Mauritius isn’t just transforming payments, it’s helping shape the future of entrepreneurship and enterprise on the island
For Absa Mauritius, Spark Business is more than an app. It’s a cornerstone of the bank’s strategy to support entrepreneurs, strengthen grassroots commerce, and create a thriving digital economy.
With Spark Business, the future of payments and business growth is literally in the palm of your hand.
