Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program 2025 (up to $20,000)

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About Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program

With support from American Express, the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation is now accepting applications for its Backing International Small Restaurants grant program. This initiative seeks to support independent restaurants that positively impact their community and are owned/operated by or serve individuals experiencing economic hardship.

The Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program is designed to help restaurants make critical improvements and build long-term sustainability. The goal is to empower these businesses to continue providing nourishing food and fostering community connections. The funding can be used for various purposes, including enhancing digital capabilities, upgrading or refreshing dining spaces, improving kitchen operations, and revitalizing local outreach programs.

Since its inception, the program has awarded over $1.8 million in grants to 140 businesses. In 2025, the IDA Foundation will distribute $1.45 million USD to support 100 independent restaurants across 15 major cities, including those in the UK, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Canada, Spain, and France.

• Sponsor Organisation: International Downtown Association (IDA)

Benefits of Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program

• A total of $20,000 in grant funds will be awarded to 20 restaurants located in Toronto and Montreal. Each of the selected restaurants will receive $20,000 to support their business.

Backing International Small Restaurants Grant Program Requirements

To be eligible for the Backing International Small Restaurants Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Location: The restaurant must be located in Toronto, Canada
• Business Requirements: The restaurant must be open for business, operating for over one year, and have a physical brick-and-mortar location/storefront. Online-only or app-based businesses are not eligible.
• Type of Restaurant: The restaurant must be a small, independently owned business (not part of a franchise with more than five locations).
• Revenue Requirements: The restaurant must have annual revenue of less than $1.5 million in Toronto.

Application Date and Process

• Click on the link to the application website to apply.

Application Deadline

30 June, 2025

Scholarship Application Portal

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