Applications are now open to small restaurant owners who qualify for one of American Express’ signature grant programs for the dining industry: Backing Historic Small Restaurants and Backing International Small Restaurants.
The 2025 “Backing Small” program grants will provide $3.95 million in funding and other resources to help small and independent restaurants around the world preserve their history and legacy, while celebrating their cuisines and supporting local economies.
Applications for both programs open today; they close on May 30 for “Backing Historic Small Restaurants” and on June 30 for “Backing International Small Restaurants.”
American Express officials say backing eateries is a company priority.
“American Express is proud to back local champions who strengthen their communities, and that includes many small and independent restaurants,” said Madge Thomas, head of corporate sustainability and president, American Express Foundation. “Food brings people together and builds community. We aim to offer restaurants the support they need to expand, innovate, update their spaces, and improve operations, so they continue to grow and bring vitality to neighborhoods across the U.S and around the world.”