Empowering Restaurants: American Express Grant Program Returns
Empowering Restaurants: American Express Grant Program Returns
Applications are now open for the Backing Historic Small Restaurants grant program, a collaborative effort between the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express. This initiative is designed to assist small and independent restaurant owners in maintaining their unique histories, celebrating their culinary offerings, and supporting local economies.
Significant Grants for Historic Restoration
Entering its fifth year, the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program aims to distribute $2.5 million in grants to 50 historic restaurants across the country. Since its inception, this program has already awarded over $5 million to over 130 restaurant owners, who faced challenges due to economic hardships and disasters. These funds have proven crucial in helping restaurants survive and thrive.
Support from American Express
The initiative is part of a broader “Backing Small” grants program initiated by American Express, which also includes support for international small restaurants. For 2025, the combined efforts of these “Backing Small” programs is set to offer a total of $3.95 million in funding, along with various resources designed to uplift restaurant businesses worldwide.
A Commitment to Community and Culture
Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability and President of the American Express Foundation, expressed pride in supporting local champions who enhance their communities. According to Thomas, food is a vital element that unites people, and American Express aims to empower restaurant proprietors with the necessary resources to innovate, expand, and enhance their operational effectiveness.
Voices from Past Grantees
Testimonials from previous grantees highlight the tangible impacts of the funding. For instance, Stephen Reeve, the owner of New York Café, a restaurant in Alaska with over a century of history, shared how the grant facilitated essential infrastructure renovations and improved documentation of the café's storied past. Reeve’s dedication to honoring the establishment's history reflects the core mission of the grant program to preserve cultural heritage.
Application Process Details
Restaurant owners interested in applying for this grant can now submit their applications, which will remain open until late May. Additionally, community members are encouraged to take part in the nomination process for their favorite local restaurants, further promoting the significance of these establishments in their neighborhoods.
About American Express' Initiatives
American Express established the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program as a response to the challenges faced by the restaurant industry during the pandemic. This initiative aims to continuously adapt the support provided to small restaurant owners, helping them navigate and overcome ongoing challenges. Since launching the program, American Express has aided thousands of small businesses across numerous states and territories, demonstrating a commitment to fostering local economies.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is dedicated to supporting communities in preserving their historic places. With a mission to enhance the cultural identity of neighborhoods, the Trust plays an essential role in revitalization efforts that promote economic growth and community engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program?
This program provides financial grants to historic restaurants to help them preserve their cultural heritage and support local economies.
How much funding is available through the program?
For the year 2025, the program will provide $2.5 million in grants to 50 qualifying historic restaurants across the United States.
Who can apply for the grants?
Small and independent restaurant owners struggling due to economic hardships or natural disasters are encouraged to apply for these grants.
How can community members contribute to the program?
Community members can nominate their favorite local restaurants for the grant, supporting their preservation and recognition efforts.
What is the mission of the National Trust for Historic Preservation?
The National Trust is dedicated to helping communities maintain and enhance the value of their historic places, fostering economic growth and civic engagement.
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