Business Daily Media

Men's Weekly

.

Grants on Offer to Help Sydney's Small and Independent Restaurants Thrive


American Express announces the return of its Backing International Small Restaurants grant program in partnership with the International Downtown Association Foundation and the support of Restaurant & Catering Australia.

The program aims to support small independent restaurants with community significance, as they navigate the challenges of the current economic climate. Additional consideration will be given to restaurants operated by underrepresented and/or economically vulnerable members of the community.

Six Sydney restaurants will each receive $21,000 in grant funding to invest in the ongoing success of their business. All small independent restaurants in Sydney are encouraged to apply - especially those who are anchors within their local community and are facing hardship.

Naysla Edwards, Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Member Experience for American Express Australia and New Zealand, said: "Many small restaurants that are pillars of their local community are doing it tough right now and need extra support. 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, IDA Foundation said, "We recognise 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. It is an honour to implement this innovative work with the generous support of American Express."

Suresh Manickam, CEO of Restaurant & Catering Australia said: "This 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."

This is the second consecutive year Backing International Small Restaurants has run in Sydney, with year-one focusing on the historic Rocks area. Sydney is one of five major cities involved. Others include Mexico City, London, Tokyo and Toronto. To date, American Express has provided grants to more than 100 restaurants globally through this program and its U.S. Backing Historic Small Restaurants program.   

Backing International Small Restaurants builds on American Express' efforts to support small businesses year-round, including through its annual Shop Small campaign, a global movement that shines a spotlight on small businesses, American Express Delicious Month Out and other global "Backing Small" programs. 

To learn more about Backing International Small Restaurants, including eligibility and to apply, visit downtown.org/event/bisr. Applications close 8 July 2023.

Minns Labor Government shutting down the Business Connect program

The NSW Opposition is concerned that the Labor government will shut down a support program that has assisted New South Wales businesses. In a media ...

Samsara Eco appoints Dr. Lars Kissau as General Manager for Asia

Australian biotech innovator Samsara Eco has announced the appointment of Dr Lars Kissau as its first General Manager of Asia. Based in Singapore...

From the first bounce to the final siren - small business lessons from the AFL Grand Final

The AFL Grand Final is one of the most anticipated days on the sporting calendar. This Saturday, the Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions will battle i...

Australia’s top finance leaders recognised as CFO role expands

Amid surging regulatory demands and rapidly evolving industry, Australia’s most influential Chief Financial Officers will be honoured at the inaug...

Why outdated security leaves small businesses exposed to crime

Small and medium businesses in Australia are under increasing pressure to address security gaps that criminals readily exploit. An unlocked door, an...

Why it’s time telcos rethink location and put customer experience first

Maurice Zicman, Vice President - CX Strategy at TP in Australia unpacks why the telco industry must rethink old assumptions and focus on digital-f...