As small businesses continue to feel the impact of the pandemic, many of them still need support to keep their doors open. To back underrepresented small business owners as they navigate the pandemic and plan for long-term success and resilience, American Express has partnered alongside Main Street America to launch a $1.65 million year-round program called Inclusive Backing, which will provide hundreds of underrepresented small businesses with financial support, as well as other resources to address their critical needs and challenges.

More than 250 grants, totaling $5,000 each, will be awarded in four cycles over 12 months to small business owners in older or historic commercial districts across the country, with priority given to businesses that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. While the deadline to apply for Cycle 1 has passed, future grant cycles will be announced in early 2022. To learn more about what types of businesses and grant expenses are eligible, click below!

Image Credit: Coalition to Back Black Businesses