June 29, 2024

Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street, Inc. is excited to announce that five downtown businesses have been selected by American Express and Main Street America as $10,000 grant recipients for the Backing Small Business grant program.

• Bel Fiore Co.
• Grains & Taps
• INSPO by KHL Design Studio
• KD’s Books
• Megan’s Yoga Tribe

“We couldn’t be prouder of these businesses. Each one is such a vital part of our downtown community, and these grants will help them continue to grow and thrive right here in the heart of Lee’s Summit,” said Donnie Rodgers, Executive Director of Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street, Inc.

Since launching in 2021, Backing Small Businesses has provided over $9 million in grants to 1,180 small business owners nationwide. American Express and Main Street America initially created the grant program to help economically vulnerable small business owners recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and grow their businesses

“We are truly thrilled to provide additional support to our country’s small business owners through the Backing Small Businesses grant program, along with our partners at American Express,” said Main Street America President and CEO Erin Barnes. “These grants are no small thing – and will go far in helping our neighborhood and downtown entrepreneurs build capacity, continue to innovate and grow, and make meaningful contributions in their home communities.”

This program is part of American Express’ “Backing Small” initiative to provide financial support and resources to small business owners experiencing economic hardships. Other Backing Small grant programs include Backing Historic Small Restaurants and Backing International Small Restaurants. Backing Small is an extension of American Express’ longstanding commitment to support small independent businesses globally, including through its Shop Small movement and Small Business Saturday campaign, celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.