Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program

Published on 19 April 2024

Calling all small restaurant owners operating in Sydney and Melbourne: Applications are now OPEN for the 2024 American Express Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program!

Supporting Australia’s restaurant economy is imperative, because it ensures that eatery and café owners can continue to provide their local communities with meaningful experiences, and benefit surrounding local businesses by bringing more footfall to our main streets and town centres.

The American Express Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program has done just that for many venues across the globe, and it’s back in action for its third year in 2024.

Supported by the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation and Mainstreet Australia, the Amex program aims to enhance the business and community impact of restaurants worldwide.

In recognition of the challenges small dining venues face in the current economic climate, the grants can provide support for improvements and long-term sustainability, allowing restaurants to continue growing and serving their communities.

Small restaurant owners in Sydney and Melbourne can apply for one of 10 grants each valued at $21,500 to put towards improving their business. There will be special consideration given to small restaurants operated by underrepresented and/or economically vulnerable members of the community.

Applications are now open and close at 2pm, Friday 31 May 2024. Grantees will be announced in summer 2024.

To view the eligibility criteria, learn more about the program, or apply, click the button below.

Find out more