Grant scheme for independent restaurants to return

American Express is bringing back its international grant scheme for independent restaurants for a fifth year. 

A total of 20 eligible restaurants of community significance across both Manchester and London will each receive a grant of up to £10,500 to enhance their business operations and the experience for diners. The Fitzrovia Partnership is working with the IDA Foundation and the Association of Town and City Management to distribute the funds to great businesses. 

What is the grant for?

The grant must be used towards critical business needs that support the restaurant for long-term business sustainability. Potential uses could included critical improvements needed to sustain business operations, such as enhancing digital capabilities, building outdoor dining spaces, purchasing new equipment and making other physical improvements. Information on last year's winners can be found here.

Who can apply?

Independent businesses based in London that:

• are currently open for business, in operation prior to 1 September 2025
• are a registered for-profit business entity in good standing (or equivalent) in the jurisdiction in which it was formed and the city in which it does business (e.g. not an unincorporated contractor or self-employed individual)
• are a bricks and mortar restaurant, cafe, bar, or pub with food offering and not part of a franchise with more than five locations
• have an annual revenue in 2025 of less than £1m GBP

How will I be evaluated?

Restaurants that meet the above criteria will be evaluated on the following, with preference given to restaurants that best demonstrate:

• clear use of grant funds and the impact on the restaurant
• the ability to deploy grant funds quickly, in a five-month timeframe
• demonstrate historic, cultural, or community significance
• invest in projects that help restaurants grow, recover, and support their local communities. 

Acceptance of American Express is not a requirement for the grant. However, prior grant winners are not eligible to reapply.

What's the deadline?

5am, 17 November 2026

Further information

Make sure you double check the eligibility criteria before you submit your application. 

Please call or message IDA Foundation via Whatsapp at +1 (202) 656-5541, or email Nataly Cruz-Castillo, IDA Foundation, (nataly@downtown.org) with any questions.

Good luck!