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The Amex Shop Small Grant: A Major Opportunity for Small‑Town Businesses
- Erika Willitzer
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Small‑town entrepreneurs are some of the most resilient, creative, and community‑minded business owners in America. But even the strongest local businesses sometimes need a boost—especially when they’re ready to grow, refresh their space, or launch a new idea that could benefit the entire community. That’s why the Amex Shop Small Grant Program, offered in partnership with Main Street America, is such an important opportunity.
This national program is putting more than $10 million directly into the hands of small businesses, and it’s designed with local impact in mind. For rural and small‑town communities, this kind of investment can spark momentum that lasts long after the grant period ends.
Application Link:
What the Grant Offers
American Express and Main Street America will award over 500 grants of $20,000 each to small businesses across the country. The goal is simple: help local businesses grow, innovate, and strengthen their communities.
Recipients will have six months to complete their projects, and during that time, they’ll also gain access to:
Networking opportunities with other grant recipients
Self‑guided e‑learning courses
Platforms to share their business story and project progress
This isn’t just funding—it’s a support system.
Key Dates
Applications are open from November 29, 2025 (Small Business Saturday) through January 23, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CT.(Main Street America recently extended the deadline to give businesses more time to apply.)
Who’s Eligible
To qualify, businesses must:
Have been operating from a physical location on or before January 1, 2025
Be located in one of the 50 U.S. states or Washington, D.C.
Meet all federal, state, and local licensing requirements
Be in good standing with their Secretary of State (if applicable)
Submit their application through Main Street America’s Submittable portal during the open window
Businesses located in U.S. territories, those operating solely from mobile or temporary structures, or those in shared spaces are not eligible.
What the Grant Can Fund
The program is intentionally flexible, allowing businesses to propose projects that help them grow or innovate while also supporting their local community. Eligible uses include:
Capital improvements
Marketing or branding refreshes
New equipment or inventory
Creating or enhancing community‑centric spaces (patios, stages, gathering areas)
Adding new revenue streams
All funds must be spent between April and September 2026, and projects must be fully operational by the end of that period.
Why This Matters for Small Towns
A $20,000 grant can go a long way in a small town. It can help a business:
Modernize its storefront
Add outdoor seating that draws more foot traffic
Launch a new product line
Create a community gathering space
Invest in technology or equipment that expands services
When one business grows, the entire town feels the ripple effect—more visitors, more local pride, and more economic activity.
The Amex Shop Small Grant Program is more than a funding opportunity—it’s a chance for small‑town businesses to take a meaningful step forward. Whether it’s a long‑planned renovation, a new idea waiting for the right moment, or a community‑focused project that brings people together, this grant can help make it happen.
If your town has a business with a bold idea and a ready‑to‑execute plan, now is the time to encourage them to apply.
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