Expansion, Attraction and Retention Services

Enterprise Zones

The Enterprise Zone Program offers exemptions on real property for up to 10 years for eligible projects. Enterprise Zone agreements are negotiated with the City and the actual percentage of abatement usually depends on the dollars invested and the number of jobs created or retained. Other considerations include projected payroll, infrastructure needs, as well as other factors. Only non-retail businesses can qualify for Enterprise Zone abatements.

Community Reinvestment Act

The Community Reinvestment Area (C.R.A.) program offers exemptions on improved real property for up to 15 years for eligible projects. The City of Urbana has three active CRA areas to help offset the costs of doing business and for residential improvements within those areas. Abatement terms are negotiated based on actual investment, jobs created or retained, and other factors.

One-Stop Workforce Development

Champaign Technology and Employment Center (CTEC) is a partnership bringing together state, county and private employment and training services. CTEC can assist your company in employee recruitment, job screening, skill assessment and skills matching. Additional services include training services, labor market information and special programs catered to the individual needs of your business. For more information, contact Dallas Dobyns or Rich Bills at 937-484-1500.

State Incentives The State of Ohio has the ability to offer packages which vary from discretionary funding to specific credits or grants. It is important that you contact the Development Planner early in your planning process so that we can best assist you

At what point should I contact the Economic Development coordinator  for help?

Many of the programs which may work for your business take time to process and implement, so the sooner you call, the better able the City is to help. When you do call, be prepared to answer some basic questions about your project, such as the total project cost, the amount of funding you are needing, your current sources of funding, the number of jobs you will be creating, and the quality of those jobs (what skills will be needed to fill the positions, will you offer apprenticeships/training to employees, etc.).