New funding available for historic small restaurants

Restaurant owners across the U.S. know the impact that the “Backing Historic Small Restaurants Grant Program” can have on their community. 

Over the past two years, 50 historic restaurants have collectively received $2 million, and their owners have used the grant funds to make improvements to their businesses that have led to positive impacts on their surrounding areas. 

Restaurant owners have acclaimed the first two installments of the grant as being uplifting for the entire community, their neighbors raving about the preservation work. The grants have given owners the opportunity to update their establishment, impressing visitors, and increasing their number of dine-in customers. 

The third installment of the “Backing Historic Small Restaurants Grant Program” was announced Thursday by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and America Express. The grant will see $1 million in funding shared by 25 recipients across the country. Grants are funded by American Express and administered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Each grant recipient will receive $25,000. 

To be eligible for a grant, independent small restaurants must operate in historic buildings or neighborhoods, contribute to their neighborhood’s history and identity, and have a diverse story about cuisine and community in the U.S. Restaurant owners can submit formal grant applications through 11:59 p.m. ET on March 12, 2023. The deadline is the same for community members planning to submit nominations. 

“We’re proud to give small restaurants the resources they need to grow their businesses and continue their legacies for years to come,” American Express Vice President Community Affairs Alice Lin Fabiano said in a statement. 

Backing Historic Small Restaurants is part of American Express’ Backing Small initiative, which focuses on supplying financial support and additional resources to help small businesses meet crucial needs. The Backing Small initiative has $17 million in funds committed through 2024 to support underrepresented and financially vulnerable small business owners and entrepreneurs. The initiative includes grant programs, mentoring support, and technical assistance.