Area businesses could potentially be awarded up to $5,000 with a new grant meant to support small businesses. American Express is sponsoring a grant named Services That Back Us, which may benefit area businesses. All service-based small businesses in older or historic commercial districts are encouraged to apply from the grant, which would award $5,000 to qualifying businesses. Grants will specifically be awarded to businesses owned by historically marginalized and underrepresented groups. The grant is meant to boost economic morale on the heels of the pandemic and the economic instability it has left behind. It is also meant to support businesses that support others in the community with the services they provide, which can be anything from cosmetology to dry cleaning. Applications are now open, with the deadline to apply on March 1, by 11:59 p.m. CST.
