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We’re thrilled to share some exciting news for our vibrant small business community here in Faribault! The Amex Shop Small Grants Program, a powerful partnership between American Express® and Main Street America, has significantly expanded, offering an incredible opportunity for local entrepreneurs.

Initially launched with $5 million, the program has now grown to over $10 million in total grants! This means more than 500 small businesses across the U.S., including those right here in Faribault, will receive $20,000 each to foster growth, innovation, and stronger community ties.

Amex Shop Small Grant Faribault Business Application

What is the Amex Shop Small Grants Program?

This program is more than just financial assistance; it’s a testament to the shared commitment of American Express and Main Street America to champion the small businesses that are the backbone of our local economies. These grants are designed to empower you to undertake “ready-to-execute” projects that will have a tangible impact on your business and the community it serves.

Key Details You Need to Know:

  • Grant Amount: Each selected business will receive a $20,000 grant.
  • Total Impact: Over 500 grants will be distributed, totaling more than $10 million.
  • Project Timeline: If awarded, you’ll have a 6-month period, from April to September 2026, to complete your project.
  • Application Period: Applications are open from Small Business Saturday, November 29, 2025, to Friday, January 23, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT. (Note: This deadline has been extended, so don’t delay!)
  • Notification: Grant recipients will be notified in March 2026.

Is Your Business Eligible?

We want to see as many Faribault businesses as possible take advantage of this! Here’s a quick eligibility checklist:

  • You must be 18 years or older and an owner of an eligible small business.
  • You must have owned that business on or before January 1, 2025.
  • Your business must be:
    • A for-profit, independently owned business.
    • Have a start date on or before January 1, 2024.
    • Operate out of a physical “brick-and-mortar” location in one of the 50 U.S. states or Washington D.C. (This means no online-only, home-based, mobile vehicle, or shared-space businesses).
    • Have operated out of that physical location on or before January 1, 2025.
    • Employ 20 or fewer Full Time Equivalent (FTE) employees.
    • Meet all federal, state, and local operating requirements.

Please note: Nonprofits, franchises, and businesses operating from temporary or shared spaces are not eligible.

How Can Businesses Use These Funds?

The grants are intended to help your business grow, innovate, and support the local community. Think big, but practical!

Acceptable Uses Include:

  • Large capital expenses (e.g., equipment upgrades, facility renovations).
  • Marketing and branding refreshes.
  • Developing new revenue streams.
  • Creating or improving a community-centric space within your business (e.g., a new patio, performance stage, or area for local gatherings).
  • Other operational expenses incurred during the grant period.

Funds MAY NOT be used for:

  • Payment of invoices/credit card purchases made before the grant period.
  • Debt/loan repayment.
  • Rent/utilities.
  • Payroll/staffing/labor (with the exception of contracted labor, like a branding consultant or electrician).
  • Personal or non-business-related expenses.

Tips for a Strong Application:

The review process focuses on eligibility, feasibility, business impact, community impact, and local significance. Here’s how to stand out:

  1. “Ready-to-Execute” Project Plan: Your proposal should clearly outline a project that can be substantially completed within the 6-month grant period (April-September 2026).
  2. Detailed Budget: Provide a clear, itemized budget. If your project exceeds $20,000, explain how you’ll secure additional funding. If it’s less, specify how remaining funds will be used for other eligible business expenses within the grant period.
  3. Highlight Community Impact: Faribault thrives when its businesses are deeply connected to the community. Emphasize how your project will positively affect local residents, enhance the local experience, or contribute to Faribault’s unique character.

Don’t Miss Out!

This is a fantastic chance to secure significant funding to propel your Faribault business forward. Gather your project ideas, prepare your budget, and get ready to apply!

Click HERE to learn more and apply!

If you have questions, please reach out to the Faribault Chamber of Commerce. We’re here to support your success!

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