TORONTO — American Express is expanding its Backing International Small Restaurants program in Canada, with independent restaurants in Montreal now eligible to apply, in addition to Toronto. In total across both cities, 20 grants of $19,500 (CAD) each will be offered to selected recipients.
In partnership with the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation, grant support is aimed at small and independently owned restaurants with community significance and economic need for physical or digital improvements to their business. These improvements will have a long-term impact on business growth and sustainability, allowing owners to grow their customer base and increase community vibrancy.
“We’re thrilled to scale up support for small restaurants in two cities with world-class, vibrant and unique food scenes,” says Kerri-Ann Santaguida, vice-president and general manager of Merchant Services for American Express Canada. “Our hope is that these grants will help restaurants grow, thrive and continue to play a vital role in enriching the cultural fabric of our local communities.”
In its first two years in Canada, Backing International Small Restaurants provided more than $200,000 (CAD) in financial support to small restaurants in Toronto. In 2023, Gushi was one of six restaurants in the city to be awarded a $19,500 (CAD) grant through the program. This recognition celebrated Gushi’s contribution to central Toronto’s food scene, and funded essential improvements needed to further enhance Gushi’s connection to its locale.
Grant funds were used to paint a mural, envisioned in collaboration with a local artist to brighten the Cabbagetown restaurant exterior. The grant also facilitated expansion of indoor seating, creating a much-needed dining area and fostering a warm and welcoming space.
Globally, the program will more than double the annual grant funding to $955,000 (USD), up from $435,000 (USD) in previous years. Since the inception of Backing International Small Restaurants in 2022, American Express has provided $810,000 (USD) in funding to more than 70 global restaurants in London, Mexico City, Sydney, Tokyo and Toronto.
“We’re excited to be partnering with American Express again for the third year of the Backing International Small Restaurants program. This year’s expansion to nine global cities demonstrates our shared commitment to boosting long-term sustainability for culturally significant and independent restaurants,” says David Downey, executive director, IDA Foundation. “By increasing the grant amount, we can provide even greater support to these businesses, empowering them to thrive and continue to be cultural cornerstones within their communities.”
