Celebrating Small Businesses in 2025
Small businesses are the heart of our communities. On our blog, we shared stories of Main Street business innovation, community, and growth. Here are four stories about small businesses from the past year.
Applications are now open for the broader round of the 2025 Backing Small Businesses grant program, supported by American Express. This nationwide initiative will award 400 grants of $10,000 to help locally significant small businesses overcome economic hardship, invest in growth, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Now in its fourth year, the Backing Small Businesses grant program is part of American Express’ broader “Backing Small Businesses” work to equip small businesses with the resources to grow and innovate today, prepare for tomorrow, and overcome challenges big and small. Grants are available to eligible businesses across all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. Later this year, a subset of 25 grant recipients will also be selected to receive $30,000 Enhancement Grants to support high-impact projects that deepen their reach and resilience.
“American Express is thrilled to continue our work with Main Street America, and to commit an additional $4 million to provide direct support for community-driven businesses to help them recover, grow, and thrive,” said Jennifer Skyler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at American Express. “Small businesses foster community and we’re proud to support 400 additional small businesses through this incredible program.”
Erin Barnes, President and CEO of Main Street America, added, “Small businesses are the backbone of thriving communities. They work tirelessly to create opportunity, preserve culture, and shape the identity of Main Streets across the country. We’re proud to work with American Express to recognize and support the people behind these local businesses building ventures with limited resources.”
Applications are now open until Thursday, July 31 at 11:59 p.m. CT for eligible small business owners who demonstrate both economic need and a strong local footprint. Grants can be used for projects that support the growth of their businesses and deepen their impact within their communities.
Watch the Informational Webinar:
If you were unable to attend our live webinar, you can still access the recording. The session provides valuable insights on:
- Program overview
- Eligibility requirements
- Eligible grant expenses
- Review criteria
- Application best practices
Have additional questions? Contact smallbizgrant@mainstreet.org.
Related News and Stories
Community Spotlight: How Anniston’s Karla Eden is Rewriting the Playbook for Small Business Success
Learn how Karla Eden at Main Street Anniston in Anniston, Alabama, built a small business support program based around the GETUP Anniston training program and pitch contest.
New Podcast Episode: Growing a Business with Intention
In a new episode of our Main Street Business Insights podcast, host Matt Wagner sits down with Angela Mallett, founder of Honeybee Sage Wellness & Apothecary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In their conversation, Angela shares her intentional approach to growth, one that prioritizes community care and cultural healing over rapid expansion.
