A new national survey of U.S. small businesses reveals that 64 percent of small businesses bank and shop online. In a survey commissioned by eBillme and conducted by Market Platform Dynamics, 721 small businesses were polled. Of the 64 percent of small businesses that shop online, 33 percent cited convenience and the availability of a secure payment option as the key to online commerce.

When asked what online payment options would be most appealing, small businesses said that a payment option that did not require use or disclosure of credit card information, as well as an option that gave them more control over the purchasing and approval process would spur online confidence and increase purchases.

Unlike their larger counterparts, small businesses face a greater challenge in securing credit and obtaining corporate credit cards. "Many small businesses still operate in the world of cash, and do not have the ready accessibility to corporate credit cards that are common in large organizations," says Marwan Forzley, President and CEO of MODASolutions. "Those that use credit cards are concerned about their misuse, and seek ways to tightly approve and monitor spending."

The survey also found that the small businesses who are not shopping online are not necessarily Internet-averse. Many maintain other online relationships, and the majority do their banking online. "These businesses perceive their banks to be secure, and they have relationships with them already. The inherent efficiencies of banking online as opposed to a physical location are important for small businesses," says Forzley.

To tap into this underserved segment, eBillme offers solutions that online merchants can embrace to better serve the small business market.