One-on-One Assistance
DNA staff provides one-on-one assistance to new and existing business and property owners by facilitating site selection, guiding applicants through the city’s permitting and licensing processes and connecting them with the right resources and contacts. Owners also have access to our Downtown Resource Center.
Additionally, DNA manages the city’s downtown grant programs outlined below. Not all programs are fully funded each year. Please contact us for more information.
Business Loan Interest Subsidy Program
City provides a subsidy for interest paid on commercial loans starting at 90% in year 1 of the loan to 50% in year 5. Funds are to be used for property acquisition, building improvements or business start-up or expansion.
Facade Improvement Grant Program
City provides a rebate of up to 35% on eligible improvements that restore the architectural integrity and character of downtown building facades.
E-Elgin Technology Grant
City provides assistance to downtown Elgin property and business owners for expenses related to technology infrastructure improvements and moving expenses.
Projecting Sign Grant
City assists with providing projecting signage that advertises and enhances the presence of local business in downtown through the use of vibrant and contemporary designs and logos.
Custom programs available for high impact projects that create significant new sales tax, property tax and/or professional jobs in the downtown.
FEDERAL & STATE PROGRAMS
River Edge Redevelopment Zone
Elgin is one of four communities in the state of Illinois selected for the River Edge Redevelopment Program, the purpose of which is to revive and redevelop environmentally challenged properties adjacent to rivers in Illinois. Properties located in the RERZ are eligible for certain tax incentives.
Additional programs include:
- Federal Income Tax Credits for Rehabilitation (10% credit for non-historic buildings; 20% for historic buildings)
- Disabled Access Federal Tax Credit (50% credit up to $5,000 per year)
- Illinois Historic Preservation Tax Credit for Rehabilitation (Additional 25% credit for historic buildings that qualify for federal credit)
For more information on any of these programs, contact Economic Development Director Don Obenauf at (847) 488-1456 or dobenauf@downtownelgin.com.
