#United States #New York #American Express #Small Restaurants #Preservation Grants

American Express and National Trust Announce 2025 Grantees of Backing Historic Small Restaurants

In a significant move to support small, heritage-rich restaurants, American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation unveiled the 2025 class of beneficiaries from their Backing Historic Small Restaurants program. This initiative highlights a commitment to preserving small restaurants that serve as vital cultural touchstones across the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

Celebrating five fruitful years of funding, the program has allocated over $8 million to assist more than 180 historic eateries nationwide. Each of this year's selected restaurants will receive a grant of $50,000, reaching a total of 50 distinguished establishments. Furthermore, Resy, a subsidiary of American Express, will provide an additional benefit by waiving one year of service fees for each chosen restaurant that utilizes their management platform, ResyOS.

Madge Thomas, the Head of Corporate Sustainability at American Express, reflected on the evolution of this initiative, which began as a response to the pandemic but has since grown into a full-fledged mission. “Our 2025 grantees are a testament to the rich culinary traditions that are interwoven in the fabric of American communities,” she expressed. The program aims to promote not just financial support but also a cultural revival, ensuring that future generations continue to enjoy these beloved dining establishments.

Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, highlighted the integral role of these restaurants in fostering community ties. Through generations, they have served as gathering spots where stories are shared, connections are forged, and local cuisines are celebrated. The grants are designed to help these venues thrive so they can remain vibrant parts of their neighborhoods.

For instance, Van Sharma, who manages Bombay Mahal in Brunswick, Maine, shared his experience. A previous grant facilitated substantial renovations that transformed the restaurant’s operational capabilities and allowed them to launch a nationally recognized Indian beer brand. “The investment has been pivotal for the next generation of our family business,” Sharma emphasized, showcasing the transformative impact of the funding.

Since its inception, the Backing Historic Small Restaurants initiative has benefited diverse eateries across America, from storied establishments like Sylvia's in Harlem to century-old beer gardens like those in Milwaukee. These grants have enabled restaurants to innovate, expand, and enhance their services, ensuring they maintain their positions as vital community hubs.

In parallel, American Express is also expanding its international outreach through the Backing International Small Restaurants initiative. Now in its fourth year, this program is committed to awarding over $1.45 million to 100 restaurants in countries such as France, Spain, and New Zealand in 2025. Together, the two initiatives aim to enhance global funding and resources for 150 restaurants this year, totaling nearly $4 million.

Highlighting their unwavering support for small businesses, American Express continues to fortify its initiatives, including the well-known Shop Small and Small Business Saturday campaigns, which have persisted for over 16 years. The company, through platforms like Resy and Tock, engages with over 27,000 restaurants and hospitality venues, providing essential support and advocacy for small business owners.

For further details on how American Express is making an impact in the restaurant industry, explore their insights and support initiatives on their website. To see the complete list of 2025 grantees, visit savingplaces.org/historicrestaurants.

This initiative signifies a broader movement centered on preserving the essence of community through historic dining experiences, maintaining a connection across generations and enriching local cultures.