Ahead of the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, where businesses across all five boroughs will welcome hundreds of thousands of runners, spectators and visitors, Mastercard released Race Ready, a new small business playbook designed for high-traffic moments. Race Ready helps entrepreneurs anticipate demand, prepare operations, and maximize opportunities during major moments. Mastercard also spotlighted small businesses along the Marathon route, beginning with LIC Bar in Long Island City, using consumer spending and foot-traffic insights to illustrate how local businesses can prepare for increased activity during race weekend.
Mastercard’s Ginger Siegel, Head of North America Small and Medium Business (pictured left) and Brian Porter, restaurateur and owner of LIC Bar located on the Marathon route.