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 in a press release. ​“Small businesses foster community and we’re proud to support 400 additional small businesses through this incredible program.”

Within the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal’s coverage area six Main Street Communities are qualified for grant funding including: 

• City of Clinton 
• Downtown Dunn Development Corp.
• Main Street Lumberton
• Town of Aberdeen
• Town of Elizabethtown
• Town of Roseboro

Erin Barnes, president and CEO of Main Street America, added in the release, ​“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.