“Newfound Artisan represents the kind of small, independent business that gives downtown Brevard its character and sense of place,” said Nicole Bentley, executive director of Heart of Brevard. “Supporting businesses like this means investing in local creativity, keeping dollars circulating locally, and ensuring our downtown remains vibrant, authentic, and rooted in the people who make it special.”

Since its inception, the Backing Small Businesses program has distributed more than $14 million in grants to over 1,600 small business owners across the country. For more information about the Backing Small Businesses grant program, visit mainstreet.org/backingsmallbusinesses. A full list of this year’s recipients is available at mainstreet.org/backingsmallbusinesses.

Newfound Artisan is a shop for people who love handcrafted goods, objects that feel better because they are made by real people who put heart and skill into their work. The shop connects customers with handmade goods from artisans and offers seasonal workshops in the spring and fall for those interested in learning more about the art of handcrafting. Follow Newfound Artisan on Instagram, like them on Facebook, or sign up for their newsletter to stay in the loop.

“We’re honored to be selected as a recipient of these funds and excited to use them to offer free workshops for the community,” said Doug Miller, co-owner of Newfound Artisan. “Supporting local makers and connecting the community to handcrafted goods through workshops has been central to our mission since opening. We’re grateful for the support from Main Street America and American Express, which allows us to expand our community impact this spring.”

This program marks the latest effort in American Express’ Backing Small Businesses initiative to equip small businesses with the resources to grow and innovate today, prepare for tomorrow, and overcome everyday challenges big and small. Other programs include Backing Historic Small Restaurants and Backing International Small Restaurants.