American Express Community Giving

It is our mission to support our customers, colleagues, and communities by helping them achieve their aspirations and helping their communities thrive. We aim to be a responsible corporate citizen by delivering high-impact funding and initiatives that support people, businesses, and non-profit partners to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Type of Support

Overview

American Express is dedicated to creating opportunities for organizations working across its priority issues but does not actively solicit grant applications or new partnerships. The company is open to learning about new organizations that align with its mission and is interested in deepening engagement with eligible existing partners. The overall goal is to foster community thriving through the support of various causes, reflecting its commitment to corporate responsibility and impactful social investment.

Eligibility

Organization's Location
Global
Program Location
Preferred locations: Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Singapore, United Kingdom, AZ, CA, DC, FL, NY, UT, All eligible locations: Global
Organization Type
Organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status
Organizations under Section 509(a)(1), (a)(2), or (a)(3)
Other
  • Organizations must have a documented nonprofit status if outside the U.S.
  • Must not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, citizenship, veteran or marital status, or any law-prohibited basis.
  • Programs focused on youth (ages 13 - 30) for skills and career pathways in the green economy, STEAM, and digital futures.
  • Supports school-based, college, trade school, public service, or workforce-related training or mentoring.
  • Focus on underrepresented populations including racial, ethnic, and indigenous minorities, women, refugees, incarcerated/formerly incarcerated individuals, unhoused and formerly unhoused people, veterans/VET families, the disabled, and LGBTQIA+ community members.
  • Advocacy for education and workforce development in underrepresented communities.
  • 'Backing Small' initiative for diverse small business owners with grants, mentoring, and technical assistance.
  • Financial literacy for underrepresented individuals and families.
  • Urban energy transition, emissions reduction, and efficiency programs with measurable impacts.
  • Community-led climate projects, including nature-based or clean energy initiatives by diverse groups.
  • Involvement of American Express colleagues in local environmental initiatives and disaster relief efforts.

Ineligibility

Individuals seeking scholarships, sponsorships, or other financial aids
Fund-raising activities (e.g., galas, benefits, dinners, sporting events)
Goodwill advertising, or investments in souvenir journals/dinner programs
Travel for individuals or groups
Sectarian activities by religious organizations
Political causes, candidates, organizations, or campaigns
Publications (books, magazines, articles in professional journals)
Endowments or capital campaigns (excluding restoration projects)
Traveling exhibitions (venues considered individually).
not specified

Submission

Review Criteria

Preferred Geographic Areas: Your organization stands a higher likelihood of securing funding if it is situated within the specified areas below:

Within the United States:

  • Arizona
  • New York
  • Utah
  • California
  • Florida
  • Washington D.C.

Internationally:

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • China
  • France
  • Germany
  • India
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Mexico
  • Singapore
  • United Kingdom

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