Marion, Iowa © Tasha Sams
We work in collaboration with thousands of local partners and grassroots leaders across the nation who share our commitment to advancing shared prosperity, creating resilient economies, and improving quality of life.
Emporia, Kansas © Emporia Main Street
Made up of small towns, mid-sized communities, and urban commercial districts, the thousands of organizations, individuals, volunteers, and local leaders that make up Main Street America™ represent the broad diversity that makes this country so unique.
Chicago, Illinois © Main Street America
Looking for strategies and tools to support you in your work? Delve into the Main Street Resource Center and explore a wide range of resources including our extensive Knowledge Hub, professional development opportunities, field service offerings, advocacy support, and more!
Waterloo, Iowa © Main Street Waterloo
Your one-stop-shop for all the latest stories, news, events, and opportunities – including grants and funding programs – across Main Street.
Kendall Whittier — Tulsa, Oklahoma © Kendall Whittier Main Street
Join us in our work to advance shared prosperity, create strong economies, and improve quality of life in downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts.
We are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Backing Small Businesses grant program, supported by American Express. This nationwide initiative has awarded 400 grants of $10,000 to locally significant small businesses across the country, helping them fuel growth and continue to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
The 400 grant recipients demonstrated both resilience and a strong local impact and vision for the future in their applications.
*** = Located in Main Street America Accredited Member Community
** = Located in Main Street America Affiliate Member Community
* = Located in Main Street America General Member Community
This program marks the latest effort in American Express’ “Backing Small Businesses” work to equip small businesses with the resources to grow and innovate today, prepare for tomorrow, and overcome everyday challenges big and small. Other Backing Small Businesses programs include Backing Historic Small Restaurants and Backing International Small Restaurants.
Since launching, Backing Small Businesses has provided more than $14 million in grants to over 1,600 small business owners nationwide.
Receive information about future grant rounds, as well as other small business resources and opportunities, by joining Main Street America’s Small Business Hub or by subscribing to our “Small Business Resources, Information, and Updates” list.
Learn how entrepreneurs and neighborhood leaders throughout Miami are breaking barriers through the B3 initiative, preserving cultural roots while shaping opportunities for the next generation.
© Onestop Studios
Chandra Teddleton, Ph.D., shared how the Sweet Auburn Historic District is preserving Black history while creating opportunities for a vibrant and sustainable economic and cultural future.
Chief Innovation Officer Matt Wagner, Ph.D., shares his annual predictions for the trends that will impact Main Streets and small businesses in 2026.
