American Express Provides Grants for Small Businesses
American Express and Main Street America are helping small businesses to grow, innovate and support their local communities through the Amex Shop Small Grants Program this Small Business Saturday®.
Beginning November 29, eligible small business owners can apply to receive $20,000 in funding. Terms apply.
In addition, every time an American Express® Card Member shops with their eligible Card at a qualifying U.S. small business on Saturday, November 29, American Express will donate $1 to Main Street America for the Shop Small Grants Program. Funds raised will be donated back to the program to expand on our commitment and support additional small businesses across all 50 states and D.C.*
Find out more about the program by clicking the link below.
ELIGIBILITY
The eligibility information below is a general overview. Additional information about the grant program, including detailed eligibility requirements, FAQs, and Terms & Conditions, will be released on Saturday, November 29, 2025.
To stay up to date about announcements regarding this program, sign up for our Small Businesses Resources email list.
To be eligible for this program, applicants must:
Own a for-profit, independently owned small business
Operate out of a physical “brick-and-mortar” storefront
Be located in one of the 50 U.S. states or Washington, DC (Businesses located in U.S. territories are not eligible)
Currently employ 20 or less FTE (Full Time Equivalent) employees
We are seeking proposals for projects to help your small business grow, innovate, and support your local community.
Below are a couple of examples to inspire you, but we welcome all types of innovative ideas that will support your unique business needs and make a positive impact on your local community.
Proposal Examples for Inspiration:
Large capital expense projects, a physical or marketing refresh, or adding new revenue streams, as long as there is also evidence of how the grant will help support the local community
Creating or improving a community-centric space within the business such as a patio, performance stage, or area used for community gatherings, or hosting events in existing spaces