American Express Grant Programme Returns for 2025
Apply Now for £11,000 to Invest in Your Business
Application Deadline: 4:59am, 1st July 2025
Where to Apply: Click here
We’re excited to share that the American Express Grant Programme for independent restaurants in Greater Manchester and Greater London is returning for 2025!
Last year, Wax and Beans was proud to be one of the selected recipients of this prestigious grant. The funding helped strengthen our operations and further our mission to serve as a community-driven hub for great food, drink, and connection.
Now, 20 more independent restaurants, cafés, pubs, and bars rooted in their local communities will each receive grants of up to £11,000 to invest in their future.
What the Grant Covers
Grants must be used to support long-term business sustainability. Eligible expenses may include:
- Enhancing digital capabilities (e.g., websites, booking systems)
- Building or improving outdoor dining areas
- Purchasing new kitchen or service equipment
- Making essential physical improvements to your space
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, your business must:
- Be located in Greater London or Greater Manchester
- Be independently owned, with no more than five locations and not part of a larger franchise
- Operate from a physical, brick-and-mortar location
- Have been open for more than one year
- Have an annual revenue in 2024 below the specified market threshold (see FAQs for details)
- Note: Previous recipients of the Backing International Small Restaurant grant (like us) are not eligible to reapply.
This initiative is supported by American Express, in partnership with the IDA Foundation and the Association of Town and City Management.
If you meet the criteria and have a vision for growing your business and deepening your community impact, we strongly encourage you to apply.
Let us know if you’re applying—our team would love to cheer you on!
