Applications close 17 November.
American Express and the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation have launched their Backing International Small Restaurants grants programme.
The grants programme supports small independent restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs with food offerings as they grow, recover and support their local communities, including investments that strengthen their operations and long-term resilience.
Celebrating its fifth year, the programme will award more than NZ$2.6 million to over 100 independent restaurants across nine countries, helping owners invest in their business and make an impact beyond their doors.
Key Dates:
- Opens: Fri 2 Oct 2026, 3:00am NZDT
- Closes: Tues 17 Nov 2026, 5:59pm NZDT
- Recipients: Announced Feb 2027
Could this be your restaurant?
Share your plans and apply for a chance to receive a NZ$25,000 grant.
Backing the independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. Terms, eligibility criteria and exclusions apply. For full T&Cs on the Grants Programme, visit downtown.org/foundation. 1. The Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Programme is administered by the International Downtown Association Foundation. Grant amounts are in New Zealand dollars and inclusive of any GST payable. Grant funds must be used by 31 July 2027. Accepting American Express is not a requirement of the programme. 2. NZ$5.5 million figure: grants awarded globally by the programme over the past four years. Click here for source. ® Registered Trademark of American Express Company. © 2026 American Express Company. All rights reserved.