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§ Grant
Non-repayable grant for U.S. small businesses, funding projects for growth, operational costs, and community support.
Each grant award is $20,000 in unrestricted cash.
US brick-and-mortar businesses with 20 or fewer FTE, max 25 locations, and under $5M annual Amex charge volume.
The grant is unrestricted and can be used for any business purpose including inventory, equipment, marketing, or technology.
Applications are submitted through the Hello Alice platform during designated grant cycles.
Yes, the grant is non-dilutive. American Express does not take any equity in recipient businesses.
The American Express Shop Small Grants program is a non-dilutive funding initiative administered by Main Street America in partnership with American Express. The initiative distributes over $10.1 million in capital through more than 500 individual grants of $20,000 to eligible brick-and-mortar commercial enterprises. Tied to the annual Shop Small and Small Business Saturday campaigns, the current application cycle opened on November 29, 2025, and closes on January 23, 2026, with final recipient notifications scheduled for March 2026. United States applicants must submit ready-to-execute project plans with itemized budgets, maintain 20 or fewer full-time equivalent employees, operate across a maximum of 25 locations, and generate under $5 million in annual charge volume. This financial resource targets independent small business owners seeking non-repayable capital to fund physical improvements, digital marketing, equipment purchases, or operational expenses that strengthen local commercial districts.
American Express Shop Small Grants is a $20,000 funding program supporting brick-and-mortar small businesses across the United States. Administered by American Express in partnership with Hello Alice, the program awards unrestricted cash grants to help small retailers, restaurants, and service providers invest in growth. The initiative is part of Amex's broader Shop Small movement promoting local commerce.
Applicants must operate a U.S.-based brick-and-mortar business with 20 or fewer full-time equivalent employees and a maximum of 25 locations. Annual American Express charge volume must be under $5 million. Businesses across all industries are eligible, including retail, food service, professional services, and health and wellness.
Selected businesses receive a $20,000 unrestricted cash grant that can be applied toward any business need, from inventory and equipment to marketing and technology upgrades. Winners also gain visibility through American Express's Shop Small marketing channels and access to the Hello Alice platform's network of resources, mentorship, and future funding opportunities.
Applications are submitted through the Hello Alice platform during designated grant cycles. The application typically requires business details, financial information, and a description of how the grant would support growth. Winners are selected based on business viability, community impact, and growth potential.
The Shop Small Grants program has supported hundreds of local businesses across the United States, from neighborhood bakeries and boutiques to fitness studios and home repair services. The program prioritizes businesses that demonstrate strong community ties and a clear vision for growth.