Main Street has partnered with American Express to provide grants for small businesses to grow, innovate and support local communities. The AMEX Shop Small Grants Program will fund more than 500 grants of $20,000 each, empowering small businesses.
The program was launched with a $5 million contribution, and as a result of its giving pledge for eligible transactions made on Small Business Saturday, an event created by American Express. The company will now contribute an additional $5.1 million to the program, totaling under $10 million in grants.
The grant program reflects a shared commitment of American Express and Main Street America to champion small businesses that strengthen communities and help local economies thrive.
Recipients will have a six-month period to complete projects, so applicants are encouraged to prepare a “ready-to-execute” project plan and a detailed, itemized budget. During that period, Main Street America will provide opportunities for grant recipients to connect and network with each other, complete self-guided e-learning courses and share the story of their business and their Amex Shop Small Grants Program project journey with a variety of audiences.
Applications will be open from Small Business Saturday until Friday, January 23, 2026, at 11:59 Central Time. The application can be find online.
