Support a Historic Small Restaurant

Now in its fifth year, American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation are once again supporting 50 small or independently owned restaurants across the country through the Backing Historic Small Restaurants grant program. Each restaurant—all places that contribute to their neighborhood 's unique history and identity—will receive $50,000 in funding to help them improve their businesses and positively impact their communities.

And we want to hear from you!

We invite you to use this form to tell us about the historic restaurants that are near and dear to you, and could use a little TLC to stay up and running. Public nominations don't guarantee a grant, but strong community support will be considered along with exemplary alignment with the selection criteria. The restaurant must complete the application to be eligible.

Deadline Extended: The deadline for grant applications and public nominations has been extended from May 30, 2025 to June 2, 2025.

If you are a restaurant owner, please use this form to formally apply for the grant program.

Speak Up for the Historic Preservation Fund! Urge your members of Congress to do their part to preserve the full history of our nation and the many important stories that contribute to the American experience.

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