Incentives & Programs
The County of Washington and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania offer a variety of programs and incentives to encourage businesses to expand or locate in the area.
For more information please contact Will Thomeier, Director, Economic & Tourism Development at 724.225.3010 or email will@washcochamber.com.
Washington County Development Overview
It is important to recognize that every economic development project is different and depending on the characteristics of the project, additional programs may apply or some of the more widely used programs (outlined below) may not apply. It is always recommended to meet with the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington, and/or state and regional partners to determine what, if any, incentive, grant, or loan programs may be applicable to your project.
With that in mind, here are a few of the more common state and county business development and expansion programs that are currently available:
Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (statewide): Commonly referred to as R-CAP or RAC-P, this is a cash grant program administered by the Commonwealth. RACP projects require a minimum of 50 percent match from the applicant. The timing of this program can vary but may be something to consider for future opportunities. It is important to note that this program requires legislative authorization and while there are existing legislative authorizations that are very flexible, it may be worth pursuing a project-specific authorization through the local state representative or state senator.
Washington County Local Share Account (Washington County only): Locally known as the LSA program, this grant program was established to support community and economic development projects through gaming revenues generated pursuant to the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act. The Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington is the designated administrator of this program and each year the Washington County Board of Commissioners empanels a review committee to accept and review eligible applications and make funding recommendations to the Board of Commissioners.
Local Tax-Exempt Financing (nationwide): Also referred to as “L-TEN” – please contact us for a detailed overview and fact sheet on this program, including eligibility requirements. Clients work with existing banking partners or can explore opportunities with competing banks. In general, a 15-20 percent discount on market interest rates can be anticipated.
PA Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) Loan (statewide): This loan program is offered through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the guidelines are available online and current interest rates are adjusted and published quarterly. For traditional PIDA real estate loans financing eligible land and building costs, interest rates are currently between 4.50-5.50 percent. The rates will reset again on April 1, 2024.
Low Interest Loan & Tax Credit Programs: There are a wide variety of low interest loan programs through both the state and federal government with varying terms and rates, as well as varying eligibility requirements. There may also be the potential to qualify for tax credits, depending on the project location, industry, or other characteristics.
Workforce Development Programs: Similar to low-interest financing and tax credit programs, there are many workforce development programs available to any eligible employer/employee in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Our regional workforce development agency is one of the best in accessing and deploying these resources, please contact us for a referral