Amex Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program

Amex, in partnership with Mainstreet Australia and the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation, is encouraging eligible small restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs with food offerings in Greater Sydney, Greater Melbourne and the Auckland Region to apply for the 2026 Amex Backing International Small Restaurants grant program.

This year marks the program’s fifth year, once again offering 15 grants of AUD $20,000 for small, independently owned restaurants in Melbourne and Sydney, and 5 grants of NZD $25,000 for Auckland (NZ).

This is your chance to secure funding that supports your growth and sustainability. From kitchen upgrades to digital innovation, these grants are designed to help your business thrive.

Applications are open now and will close on November 17, 2026, at 3:59pm AEDT (Australia) / 5:59pm NZDT (New Zealand). 📅