International Downtown Association (IDA)- International Small Restaurant Grant

The IDA Foundation, supported by American Express, is entering the second year of the Backing International Small Restaurants program. In 2022, the program granted a total of $375,000 USD to 36 small, independent restaurants in London, Mexico City, Sydney, Tokyo, and Toronto that have community significance. This year, IDA Foundation is seeking 6 small businesses to receive a grant of $19,500 each.

Independent restaurant owners across Toronto can apply for a share of $117,000 to help grow their business through Backing International Small Restaurants.

Who Can Apply: Toronto-based small restaurants, cafes, bars, and pubs that are not a part of a franchise with more than 5 locations and with annual revenues below $1 million CAD.

These grants are aimed at small, independent restaurants owned by individuals from underrepresented and/or economically vulnerable groups to help make critical improvements needed to help boost their business, such as enhancing digital capabilities, building or revitalizing their dining spaces, and making other physical improvements.

DEADLINE: The deadline for applications is July 7, 2023. Grantees are expected to be announced in September 2023.

For more information and to submit an application, visit: https://downtown.org/event/bisr/  

Please note, applicants must create a free submittable account to complete the application.