entzone

WHAT IS AN ENTERPRISE ZONE?

The Clinton County Enterprise Zone is a program administered by the Clinton County Economic Partnership to encourage creation of quality jobs and capital investment along the I-99 corridor and in distressed areas of the County. The CCEZ program is funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Through the CCEZ, companies located within the zone are assisted through financial incentives and technical support. The Program offers companies the opportunity to participate in a wide range of economic development programs.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

· Priority consideration for state grants and loan funds

· Designation of Enterprise Zone firms as socially and economically restricted businesses, a designation which offers an advantage in bidding on state government contracts

· Availability of assistance for clean-up of contaminated sites under Act II.

ELIGIBLE BUSINESSES

All new and existing businesses and industries within the CCEZ area are eligible to apply.

Eligible buildings shall consist of those whose primary use is commercial or industrial in nature. Furthermore, first priority is given to firms that produce goods or services that are predominately exported out of the CCEZ area.

FINANCIAL INCENTIVES

Enterprise Zone Loan Program – Low interest loan funds are available through locally based revolving loan funds established by the Clinton County Economic Partnership. Funds are targeted to businesses that create or retain jobs within the Clinton County Enterprise Zone. Priority is given to businesses that create quality employment opportunities, pay significantly more than the minimum wage, and provide competitive employee benefits. Emphasis is also placed on companies whose market ranges from regional to international.

Loans will be made for improvements to facades; interior renovation; additions; the purchase of land and buildings for expansion of existing firms or the start up new companies; the purchase and installation of machinery and capital equipment; working capital; and the payment of professional fees such as architects/engineers, surveyors, appraisers, accountants, attorneys, etc.

Small business owners and renters may apply, if they own the property or have a long term lease on the property for the same period as the term of the loan. Applicants must be credit worthy and the purpose of the loan economically feasible. For more information on this program, contact the CCEZ Coordinator at 570-748-5782.

Clinton County Enterprise Zone Tax Credits – Businesses located in the CCEZ may be eligible for tax credits as a means of encouraging private investment, while promoting job growth and economic development in designated zones. For more information on this program, contact the CCEZ Coordinator at 570-748-5782 or email ahenry@kcnet.org .

Additional Loan Programs – Several additional loan programs are available to companies within the CCEZ. These programs include, but are not limited to the following:

· Enterprise Zone Competitive Grant Program – Grant-to-loans up to $350,000 for businesses located within the State Enterprise Zone. For more information on this program, contact the CCEZ Coordinator at 570-748-5782 or email ahenry@kcnet.org .

· Clinton County Revolving Loan Program – Among the eligible uses for financing through this county-based revolving loan fund are land acquisition and development, plant construction, machinery and equipment, and working capital. Firms must be located or planning to locate in Clinton County. For more information on this program, contact the Clinton County Economic Partnership at 570-748-5782 or email flanagan@kcnet.org .

· SEDA Council of Governments and/or State Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) – These agencies offer several additional loan programs which include:

   Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) loans

   Machinery & Equipment Loan Fund (MELF) Loans

   Small Business First Fund (SBFF)

   For more information about these programs, contact SEDA-COG at 570-524-4491 or the Partnership at 570-748-5782.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

In addition to financial incentives, companies located within the CCEZ also have access to a number of regional technical support services provided by SEDA-COG. For more information on the following technical support programs listed below, contact SEDA-COG at 570-524-4491, or email LHAEZ@seda-cog.org .

Export Assistance – Companies can participate in the growing international market for Pennsylvania-made products. Assistance is available on trade leads, evaluating your product’s international sales potential, and meetings with Pennsylvania’s overseas trade representatives. Seminars and workshops are offered on such subjects as shipping, licensing, and methods of payment.

Government Procurement Technical Assistance – Collectively, the federal, state and local governments are our nation’s largest purchasers of goods and services. You can receive assistance exploring and competing in these markets. You will have access to services, resources and training programs to assist your company in entering the government marketplace, or expanding your current market share.

Technology Assistance – Specific technical needs are addressed with assistance on such subjects as manufacturing operations, telecommunications, and software options.

Business Assistance – Develop the planning, management, and financial skills necessary to make your business thrive. Receive one-on-one management assistance, emphasizing education and guidance in finding practical solutions to business problems.

Entrepreneurial Assistance – The Central Pennsylvania Entrepreneurial Assistance Network offers a wide range of resources to help entrepreneurs succeed in their chosen business.