Incentives
In 2021, City Council passed a new ordinance, creating Chapter 8 Article II to provide for certain economic development stimulus incentives.
Eligible businesses must apply for the program each year that it is available. The program for existing businesses is scheduled to end June 30, 2027.
This program will be administrated by the Economic Development Department. If you have questions about the Economic Development Business License Incentive Program please contact: edincentiveprogram@greenvillesc.gov.
TARGETED BUSINESS LICENSE AND BUILDING PERMIT REBATE GRANTS
Why is it needed?
- The standardized model ordinance does not include some of the special provisions the City has established in the past to attract and retain businesses
- Having a standalone economic development ordinance allows for greater flexibility and provides a new tool for staff to use for business development
- Allows the city to address specific economic development needs
- Allows greater control of incentive payments and tie-in to ensure investment and job creation targets are achieved
Which businesses are we focused on?
New Businesses (5-year 100% Business License Rebate)
Existing Business (5-year 50% Business License Rebate)
- Artist*
- Retail*
- Manufacturing
- Corporate Headquarters
- Grocery Store in Special Emphasis Neighborhood*
- Child Care Businesses
- Any Commercial Annexation
*See map below for specific coverage area.
Grocery StorE Incentive Area
Retail Incentive Area
Artist Incentive Area
Incentives for new job creation and capital investment*
| New Jobs | Capital Investments | Business License Rebate | Permit Fee Rebate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | $500,000 | 100% (1 year) | 25% |
| 25 | $750,000 | 100% (2 years) | 50% |
| 50+ | $1,000,000 | 100% (3 years) | 100% |
*at or above Greenville County's median per capita wage
An application for businesses interested in applying for this incentive will be available later in 2022.
Targeted Priority Investment Areas: Wade Hampton, Laurens, Pendleton, Pleasantburg, Haywood, Stone, Augusta
| New Jobs | Capital Investments | Business License Rebate | Permit Fee Rebate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | $250,000 | 100% (1 year) | 25% |
| 10 | $500,000 | 100% (2 years) | 50% |
| 15 | $750,000 | 100% (3 years) | 100% |