Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program 2026

Overview

The Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program 2026 is supported by American Express and recognized by the International Downtown Association Foundation. The program is designed to assist small restaurants in recovering, growing, and continuing to support their local communities. Financial support can be directed toward various initiatives, such as upgrading digital capabilities, constructing or updating dining areas, and improving kitchen operations.

Who can apply

Applicants must operate a small, independently owned, for-profit restaurant, café, bar, or pub that includes a food offering and is not part of a franchise with more than five locations. Eligible entities must have a physical brick-and-mortar storefront and be currently open for business, having been in operation before September 1, 2025. Online-only or app-based businesses do not qualify. In addition, applicants must have generated a 2025 annual revenue below market-specific thresholds and be situated in one of the fifteen designated program cities across Auckland, Barcelona, London, Manchester, Melbourne, Sydney, Mexico City, Milan, Montreal, Toronto, Osaka, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Tokyo, or Paris.

What you get

Grants are awarded in specific quantities and currencies based on the location of the establishment. Auckland receives 5 grants of NZD 25,000 each. Barcelona receives 10 grants of EUR 12,500 each. London and Manchester share 20 grants of GBP 10,500 each. Melbourne and Sydney share 15 grants of AUD 20,000 each. Mexico City receives 10 grants corresponding to the MXN equivalent of USD 10,000. Milan receives 5 grants of EUR 12,500 each. Montreal and Toronto share 20 grants of CAD 20,000 each. Osaka, Fukuoka, Sapporo, and Tokyo share 10 grants of JPY 2,300,000 each. Paris receives 10 grants of EUR 12,500 each.

Requirements

The International Downtown Association Foundation evaluates qualifying candidates based on specific priorities. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a clear intended use of the grant funds and outline the expected impact on the establishment. Submissions must show the capacity to spend the awarded funds within a five-month timeframe. Consideration is also given to restaurants that demonstrate historic, cultural, or community significance, as well as those investing in projects that foster recovery, growth, and community support.

How to apply

Interested applicants can begin the submission process by creating an account or logging into Submittable. Candidates must utilize the specific country and language links provided for the application.

Key dates

The deadline to submit applications is November 16, 2026.