American Express and IDA Foundation Celebrate 97 Restaurants Impacting Communities with Grants

Empowering Community Through Dining

American Express and the International Downtown Association Foundation have announced the 2025 grantees of the Backing International Small Restaurants grant program. This initiative celebrates 97 small and independently owned restaurants from 14 countries, collectively receiving more than $1.4 million in funding.

In its fourth consecutive year, this program continues to shine a spotlight on restaurants that positively contribute to their localities. Since its inception in 2022, the grant program has supported a total of 237 restaurants, distributing over $3.2 million to enhance their operations and community impact.

This year’s selected establishments are not merely places for meals but vibrant hubs where communities engage through food, arts, and shared experiences. From a Mediterranean eatery in Paris that promotes accessibility in live music events to a colorful café in Mexico City serving as an exhibition space, these restaurants cultivate dialogue and connection within their neighborhoods.

Highlights from This Year’s Grantees

One standout grantee, Freims, located in Mexico City, combines café culture with artistic expression. Founded by a group cast in diverse creative backgrounds including photography, literature, and music, Freims is much more than a café; it is a community haven. The grant will enable Freims to improve accessibility with features like ramps and braille menus, ensuring everyone is welcomed. Carlos Metta, co-founder, emphasized, “This support helps us strengthen the bridge between local artists and our community. It's not just an investment in a café — it's an investment in artistic culture and neighborhood vibrancy.”

Another grantee, Doublevie, is a lively Parisian venue known for its inventive cuisine and lively music scene. The grant they received will be utilized to update kitchen equipment and operational resources, helping them to maintain their engaging community events. Owner Alexandre Bortenlänger stated, “This grant helps keep the energy alive and the doors open to everyone, allowing us to continue hosting free DJ nights and introducing the community to the sounds of tomorrow.”

Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability at American Express, expressed the program’s intention succinctly: “Small restaurants rooted in their communities bring energy, flavor, and heart to cities around the world. They preserve culture, create jobs, and bring people together.” This program not only delivers financial support but also invests in local establishments that form the backbone of neighborhoods, fostering community interaction and cultural preservation.

Strengthening Community Fabric

David Downey, Executive Director of the International Downtown Association Foundation, noted, “Celebrating the fourth year of this grant program, we are continually inspired by the resilience and positive impact of the selected restaurants. These small establishments are truly the heart and soul of their neighborhoods.” The ongoing support from American Express plays a vital role in fortifying the fabric of urban communities.

The significance of such initiatives is highlighted further when observing their alignment with American Express’s commitment to supporting small enterprises through complementary programs. For instance, the Backing Historic Small Restaurants initiative has allocated over $8 million to assist 180 restaurants across the United States, demonstrating an overarching dedication to revitalizing the realms of hospitality and community engagement.

In conclusion, as American Express continues to advocate for small businesses, the Backing International Small Restaurants program stands as a beacon of hope and support. It not only recognizes the contributions of small dining establishments but encourages their growth and sustainability for years to come. For anyone interested in learning more about the initiative, please check the links provided for further details on the 2025 grantees and American Express’s commitment to community support.