Cape Charles’ Fig Street Inn receives National Enhancement Grant from American Express and Main Street America

Fig Street Inn, a small business in Cape Charles, has been named one of just 25 recipients nationwide to receive a $30,000 Enhancement Grant through the Backing Small Businesses program, a collaboration between American Express and Main Street America.

This award is part of a broader initiative designed to support small business owners in expanding and strengthening their operations. Earlier this year, Fig Street Inn and 499 other small businesses across the country were awarded $10,000 grants as part of the program’s initial funding round. With the latest round of Enhancement Grants, the program has now provided nearly $9.8 million in grants to 1,180 small businesses nationwide since its launch in 2021.

Fig Street Inn, a boutique bed and breakfast in the heart of Cape Charles, has long been recognized for its hospitality and commitment to the local community. The funding will help enhance its operations and continue providing visitors with a top-tier lodging experience on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

“Small businesses are a pillar of our communities, bringing culture, character, and connection to our neighborhoods,” said Madge Thomas, President of the American Express Foundation. “We are grateful to be able to provide enhancement grants to businesses across the country that bring hope, vitality, and resilience to the communities they serve.”

Main Street America President and CEO Erin Barnes echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of investing in businesses that have already shown potential. “By providing additional funding to businesses who have already demonstrated their potential through our program, we’re deepening our commitment to building community wealth and creating meaningful investment in local economies.”

Cape Charles Main Street, the local partner organization that supports small businesses in the town’s historic district, celebrated Fig Street Inn’s recognition and the impact this funding will have on the local economy.

The Backing Small Businesses grant program, initially launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to uplift small business owners nationwide. By supporting entrepreneurs like those behind Fig Street Inn, American Express and Main Street America aim to foster resilience, growth, and economic sustainability in communities across the country.