Applications are now open to small restaurant owners who qualify for Backing Historic Small Restaurants, a grant program from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The program helps small and independent restaurants preserve their histories while celebrating their cuisines and supporting their local economies. Now in its fifth year, the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program will provide $2.5 million in grants to 50 U.S. historic restaurants. The program has provided over $5 million over the past four years to 130 restaurant owners who have been impacted by economic hardship or disasters. The initiative, is supported by American Express and is part of the company’s “Backing Small” grants program that includes a new Backing International Small Restaurants program. Together, the “Backing Small” restaurant grant programs will provide $3.95 million in funding and other resources in 2025 to restaurants around the world, a news release said. Applications are now open and close on May 30. Restaurant owners can apply for the grant program here. Community members can also nominate their favorite restaurant.
