American Express has confirmed the return of its Backing International Small Restaurants grant program in partnership with the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation and the support of Restaurant & Catering Australia.
The initiative is designed to help small independent restaurants overcome the challenges presented by the current economic climate.
Six Sydney restaurants will each receive a grant of $21,000. All small independent restaurants in Sydney are encouraged to apply, with special consideration given to restaurants run by underrepresented and/or economically vulnerable members of the community and those who are pillars of their local community and who are struggling.
“Many small restaurants that are pillars of their local community are doing it tough right now and need extra support,” Naysla Edwards, Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Member Experience for American Express Australia and New Zealand, said. “This program aims to help alleviate some of the financial pressure they’re facing so that they can continue to do what they do best – deliver extraordinary food and experiences for their customers.”
David Downey, Executive Director of the IDA Foundation higlighted the vital role that small, independent restaurants play in our communities.
“This program is a demonstration of our commitment to supporting these businesses and helping them thrive and succeed in the wake of ongoing economic challenges worldwide,” Downey said. “It is an honour to implement this innovative work with the generous support of American Express.”
And Suresh Manickam, CEO of Restaurant & Catering Australia, said that the program will provide much-needed financial relief to restaurant businesses across Sydney.
“We are proud to support a program that contributes to the ongoing prosperity of restaurant businesses and recognises the vital contribution they bring to the vibrancy and appeal of Sydney,” Manickam said.
This is the second consecutive year Backing International Small Restaurants has run in Sydney, one of five major cities involved in the program alongside Mexico City, London, Tokyo and Toronto.
