American Express is expanding its Backing International Small Restaurants grant program, with venues in Melbourne now eligible to apply in addition to Sydney.
Run in partnership with the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation and supported by Mainstreet Australia, the program will award 10 small restaurant owners with a grant each valued at $21,500 which they can allocate towards their operational expenses or improving their business.
In its first two years in Australia, Backing International Small Restaurants has provided $240,000 in financial support and has helped small dining venues face continue to business amidst the economic challenges they have faced in these past two years.
Restaurants operated by underrepresented and/or economically vulnerable members of the community have been the primary focus of the grant and remain to be the focus for this year.
“Small independently run restaurants are at the heart of our communities and local economies,” Robert Tedesco, Vice President of Global Merchant Network Services for American Express Australia and New Zealand, said. “Many are struggling with the fallout of cost-of-living pressures and need support. It’s why this year we have expanded the program to Melbourne for the first time, in addition to Sydney. We’re lucky to have one of the best dining scenes in the world and we want to see it remain vibrant. The majority of small restaurants are family operated, so these grants will help venues keep growing and serving their communities while protecting their legacy for future generations.”
David Downey, President and CEO of the IDA Foundation said that his organisation was excited to be partnering with American Express again for the third year of the Backing International Small Restaurants program.
“This year’s expansion to nine global cities demonstrates our shared commitment to boosting long-term sustainability for culturally significant and independent restaurants,” Downey said. “By increasing the grant amount, we can provide even greater support to these businesses, empowering them to thrive and continue to be cultural cornerstones within their communities.”
All small independent restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne are encouraged to apply for the Backing International Small Restaurants grant. Applications are open until Friday 31 May 2024.
