American Express® Backing Small Businesses Grants

Backing Small Businesses Grant 2025 – $10K for Brick‑and‑Mortar Businesses

Overview

American Express, in partnership with Main Street America, is offering 400 grants of $10,000 each to eligible brick‑and‑mortar businesses across the U.S. and its territories. In addition, a select group of 25 Enhancement Grants of $30,000 will be awarded to businesses demonstrating transformative impact in their communities.

Deadline

Applications are open from July 16, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. CT through July 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT.

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Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, businesses must meet the following:

• Owner must be 18 years or older.
• Business must be brick‑and‑mortar, located in a main street, downtown, or historic commercial district, and must have occupied its current location since January 1, 2025.
• Must be an independent business, not part of a national franchise.
• Employ 20 or fewer full‑time employees (including owners).
• Must have been in operation on or before January 1, 2024, and hold an active business license in good standing.
• Must not have previously received a Backing Small Businesses grant or another AmEx-supported grant in 2025.
• Nonprofits and franchise businesses are not eligible.

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How to Apply

1. Visit the official Main Street America grant site using the link below.
2. Complete and submit the application form during the open window.
3. Limit of one application per business owner/business.
4. If selected, you will need to show documentation and submit a proposal for Enhancement Grant consideration (if applicable).

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How Grant Funds Can Be Used

Grants may support a wide range of business-building or community-building activities, such as:

• Local marketing or branding campaigns
• Equipment or inventory needed to operate
• Hosting community events or training workshops
• Website development or social media growth
• Business coaching, accounting tools, or operational strategy overhaul

All projects must be completed within the grant period.

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Why This Matters

This program reflects American Express’s commitment to local economic vitality—enabling $4 million in grant funds to support community-rooted businesses. Winning grants not only fund growth but raise visibility in local markets.

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Apply or Learn More

• Apply at: Main Street America – Backing Small Businesses Grant
• Application closes: July 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT
• Questions? American Express® Backing Small Businesses

Apply by July 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CT for a chance to receive $10,000 in grant funding.

Apply Now for the $10,000 Backing Small Businesses Grant

Have questions about grants or business funding? Schedule a call!