Announcing the 2025 Backing Small Businesses Grant Recipients
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2025 Backing Small Businesses grant program, supported by American Express.
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.
In 2010, American Express founded Small Business Saturday® to back small businesses and keep communities thriving. Main Street America has been a proud supporter since the beginning, and we are honored to once again team up with American Express to help rally communities to support their local businesses for the 15th Small Business Saturday on November 30, 2024.
We invite you to apply to be a 2024 Neighborhood Champion* and help us make this year the most impactful yet. Together, let’s set new records and make a resounding impact in celebrating and supporting the heart of our communities — our small businesses!
The application opens in early October and will remain open until mid-November, or until all the spaces are filled. Complimentary merchandise kits will begin shipping to those selected as Neighborhood Champions within the first week of the application opening, so we recommend submitting your application as early as possible to receive your kit with plenty of time to get prepared before Small Business Saturday on November 30th this year. This year, the kits will include new I SHOPPED SMALL stickers for small business owners to share with their customers, thank them for their business, and encourage others to Shop Small® on Small Business Saturday.
As in past years, all Main Street America members have been pre-qualified to serve as Neighborhood Champions on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited so apply for your spot before applications close. All you need to do to apply is fill out a brief Neighborhood Champion application and indicate you were referred by the Main Street America network*.
Mark your calendars and check back on our blog for the link and information to apply.
You can read more about the Neighborhood Champion program on the American Express website.