American Express has announced the return of its Backing International Small Restaurants grant program in partnership with the International Downtown Association Foundation and the support of Restaurant & Catering Australia.
The program offers $21,000 in grant funding to six Sydney venues, with any restaurant, pub, bar, café with food service within Sydney eligible to apply and those within underrepresented and/or economically vulnerable members of the community will be given special consideration.
Naysla Edwards, Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Member Experience for American Express Australia and New Zealand, said: “Many small restaurants that are pillars of their local community are doing it tough right now and need extra support.
“This program aims to help alleviate some of the financial pressure they’re facing so that they can continue to do what they do best – deliver extraordinary food and experiences for their customers.”
The program aims to support small independent restaurants with community significance and invest in the ongoing success of the business.
Suresh Manickam, CEO of Restaurant & Catering Australia said: “This will provide much-needed financial relief to restaurant businesses across Sydney.
“We are proud to support a program that contributes to the ongoing prosperity of restaurant businesses and recognises the vital contribution they bring to the vibrancy and appeal of Sydney.”
To date American Express has provided grants to more than 100 venues around the world through this program, with Sydney one of five major cities involved, along with Mexico City, London, Tokyo and Toronto.
David Downey, Executive Director, IDA Foundation said: “We recognise the vital role that small, independent restaurants play in our communities. This program is a demonstration of our commitment to supporting these businesses and helping them thrive and succeed in the wake of ongoing economic challenges worldwide.
“It is an honour to implement this innovative work with the generous support of American Express.”
All small independent restaurants in Sydney are encouraged to apply – especially those who are anchors within their local community and are facing hardship.
To learn more about Backing International Small Restaurants, including eligibility and to apply, visit www.downtown.org/event/bisr. Applications close 8 July 2023.