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New construction
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Business expansion
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New equipment
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Building rehabilitation
Business Incentive Programs
The City of Elkhart offers a range of programs and incentives to help local businesses invest, expand, and thrive. Whether you're looking to open a new storefront, renovate an existing property, or make a major investment, our programs can help make your project possible.
Aurora Capital Loan Fund
The Aurora Capital Loan Fund offers small business loans of up to $50,000 to support the rehabilitation or construction of commercial properties within the City of Elkhart. The fund can also assist with business expansion needs, such as purchasing inventory or new equipment.
Gateway Mile Loan Fund
The Gateway Mile Loan Fund supports entrepreneurs and business owners seeking to start or expand a business in downtown Elkhart. The program brings together financial institutions to provide access to capital for downtown business growth.
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North boundary: Main Street Bridge
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South boundary: Indiana Avenue
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West boundary: Third Street
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East boundary: Prairie Street to Johnson Street Bridge
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Must have a business plan to apply
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Must have been denied a loan by a financial institution (bank or credit union)
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Must have a minimum 600 credit score
(If your credit score is below 600, a referral to a credit recovery program is provided.)
For more information, contact:
Steve C. Watts
Gateway Mile Loan Fund Administrator
swatts@elkhart.org
574-876-9600
Tax Abatement Program
The City of Elkhart's Tax Abatement (Tax Phase-In) Program encourages new investment and job creation by offering a temporary reduction in property taxes on qualifying improvements.
Tax Increment Financing
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) utilizes the tax from future gains in real estate values to fund public infrastructure improvements. These improvements serve to increase the value of properties in the TIF district while also encouraging new development in the surrounding area. Districts are typically established for a period of 20 to 25 years, during which time all incremental tax revenues above the base rate at the time the district is established flow into the TIF fund.
Contact Us
Development Services
📍201 S. 2nd St., Elkhart, IN 46516
Mailing Address: 229 S. 2nd St., Elkhart, IN 46516
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 AM - 5 PM EST
Michael Huber, Director of Development Services
Mike.Huber@cityofelkhartin.gov
Drew Wynes, Economic Development Specialist
Drew.Wynes@cityofelkhartin.gov
Thalia Mora, Economic Development Specialist
Thalia.Mora@cityofelkhartin.gov