Amex Shop Small Grants Program

Program Overview and Mission

The Amex Shop Small Grants Program, a collaborative initiative between American Express and Main Street America, is dedicated to empowering small businesses across the United States. The program's core mission is to foster growth, innovation, and community support within local economies by providing substantial financial assistance. Initially launched with a $5 million contribution from American Express, the program has significantly expanded its impact. Through a giving pledge tied to eligible transactions made on Small Business Saturday, American Express has committed an additional $5.1 million, bringing the total grant funding to over $10 million. This substantial investment underscores the shared commitment of both organizations to champion the vital role small businesses play in strengthening communities and driving local economic prosperity.

Program Structure and Timeline

The Amex Shop Small Grants Program provides more than 500 grants, each valued at $20,000. These grants are designed to fund specific projects that enable small businesses to grow, innovate, and contribute positively to their local communities. Applicants are encouraged to develop a 'ready-to-execute' project plan accompanied by a detailed, itemized budget, as recipients will have a six-month period to complete their proposed projects. The application period for the program typically opens around Small Business Saturday, with the most recent cycle running from November 29, 2025, to January 23, 2026. This structured timeline ensures that businesses have ample opportunity to prepare thoughtful proposals and execute their plans effectively.

Support and Networking

Beyond financial assistance, the Amex Shop Small Grants Program offers a robust support system for its recipients. During the six-month project completion period, Main Street America facilitates opportunities for grant recipients to connect and network with one another. This fosters a collaborative environment where businesses can share insights, challenges, and successes. Additionally, the program provides access to self-guided e-learning courses, enabling owners to further develop their skills and knowledge. A key aspect of the program is also the opportunity for recipients to share their business stories and the journey of their Amex Shop Small Grants Program projects with a diverse range of audiences, enhancing their visibility and community engagement.

Eligibility and Focus

The program targets specific types of small businesses to maximize its impact. Eligible businesses must be for-profit, independently owned, and have been in operation with a physical 'brick-and-mortar' location in one of the 50 U.S. states or Washington D.C. since before January 1, 2025. They must also have a start date on or before January 1, 2024, and employ 20 or fewer full-time equivalent employees. The program explicitly excludes nonprofits, franchises, online-only businesses, home-based businesses, and those operating solely from temporary or shared spaces. This focus ensures that the grants directly benefit established, community-rooted small businesses that are poised for tangible growth and innovation. Grant funds must be utilized for expenses that directly contribute to the business's growth, innovation, and community support initiatives, reflecting the program's overarching goals.