Application Deadline: 4.59am, 1st July 2025

Where to Apply: Click here

American Express is bringing back its international grant scheme for independent restaurants for 2025. Restaurants across Greater London and Greater Manchester are invited to apply.

A total of 20 eligible restaurants of community significance across both Manchester and London will each receive a grant of up to £11,000 to enhance their business operations and the experience for diners in the months ahead. Stratford Original BID is working with the IDA Foundation and the Association of Town and City Management to distribute the funds to great businesses.

What the Grant is For

The grant must be used towards critical business needs that support the restaurant for long-term business sustainability. Potential uses could include critical improvements needed to sustain the business operations such as enhancing digital capabilities, building outdoor dining spaces, purchasing new equipment and making other physical improvements.

Who Can Apply

The grant program is focused on independent food businesses based in either Greater London or Greater Manchester areas who are rooted in their community. Business must:

· Be currently open for business, in operation for more than one year and have a brick and mortar location/storefront. (Online-only or app-based businesses are not eligible).

· Be a small/independently-owned restaurant, café, bar or pub with food offering and not part of a franchise with more than 5 locations.

· Have a 2024 annual revenue below market-specific thresholds. See FAQs and Terms & Conditions here for more information.

Prior grant recipients of the ‘Backing International Small Restaurant’ grant program are not eligible for consideration.

Further Information

For any other questions, please contact Clay Daneker, IDA Foundation, at clay@downtown.org, or call or message IDA Foundation via Whatsapp at +1 (202) 656-5541.