Applications are now open to small-business restaurant owners in Australia to join American Express’ Backing International Small Restaurants grant program.
The “Backing Small” program grants will provide funding and other resources to help small and independent restaurants across the globe to preserve their history and legacy while celebrating their cuisines and invigorating local economies.
“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 of the American Express Foundation. “Food brings people together, and we aim to offer these restaurants the support they need for their spaces and operations so they can continue to grow and be pillars in their neighbourhoods.”
This year, Backing International Small Restaurants opens to restaurants in eight countries, including Australia and in partnership with the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation, will offer US$1.45 million in funding to 100 restaurants so they can make critical improvements, like enhancing their digital capabilities, refreshing dining spaces, and improving kitchen operations.
In the ANZ region, Mainstreet Australia will offer support for the program. Small restaurant owners in Melbourne and Sydney can apply for one of 15 grants, each valued at AU$23,000 while Auckland restaurants can apply for one of five grants valued at NZ$25,000 ($15,000 USD) each.
Since 2022 in Australia, the Backing International Small Restaurants program has provided AU$522,500 in financial support.
Mainstreet Australia president Georgina Pikoulas said the organisation is proud to be the local partner for the program again, supporting vibrant communities across Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland. “This grant program provides critical support for small, independent restaurants – helping them stay resilient, celebrate culture, and continue serving up the flavours and hospitality that make our main streets unique.”
Restaurant & Catering Australia CEO Suresh Manickam also commented: “Small businesses are the backbone of the economy. The hospitality sector provides a valuable service to millions of Australians, we add to the cultural fabric of our suburbs, we enrich our communities and in doing so we employ hundreds of thousands of Australians.”
Restaurant Association of New Zealand CEO Marisa Bidois expressed support for the program as well, adding: “We are pleased to see American Express extending its global support for small restaurants to New Zealand. This initiative acknowledges the critical role that our small hospitality businesses play in shaping our local culture and economy. The Restaurant Association is committed to championing initiatives that provide real, tangible benefits to our industry, and this is one of them.”
Applications for the Backing International Small Restaurants program are open until July 1.
