Incentive Programs

Local Programs | State Programs

Local Incentive Programs

Enterprise Zone Program - Businesses that invest significant dollars in real property may apply for an Enterprise Zone Agreement. Qualifying applicants may be approved for up to 100% in tax abatements with the local school district’s consent. The Board of County Commissioners must approve the Enterprise Zone Agreement before construction of real property occurs. As of July 1, 2005, all new personal property assets and inventory to the State of Ohio are automatically exempted from property taxes. All businesses located in Defiance County, besides Adams Township, are located in an Enterprise Zone.

Community Reinvestment Area - Community Reinvestment Areas are areas within the City of Defiance and the Village of Sherwood that were established with the intent to encourage investment in real property through remodeling or new construction. Investment in these designated areas are 100% tax exempt for terms of 7 to 10 years depending on what type of building was constructed or remodeled. Residential and business structures are both eligible for this program.

See the Community Reinvestment Brochure

To pick up an application, contact:

Jeff Leonard
Housing Officer
631 Perry Street
Defiance, OH 43512
(419) 784-2101

Roger Engel
Building Inspection Office
631 Perry Street
Suite 101
Defiance, OH 43512
(419) 784-2195

Tax Increment Financing - The Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program permits Service Payments-in-Lieu of real property taxes to be used to finance public infrastructure improvements directly supporting an improvement project declared to have a "public purpose." Defiance County offers up to 75% exemption of real property taxed for up to 10 years. However, an annual service Payment-in-Lieu of taxes is required. The Payment-in-Lieu of taxes cannot exceed the annual debt services of the notes or bonds used to finance the specified public infrastructure improvements. The rate and term of the TIFs can be extended up to 100% for up to 30 years with local school board approval. The Defiance County Board of Commissioners must approve the TIF contract.

Defiance County Infrastructure Revolving Loan Fund Program - Low cost loans to assist with needed public infrastructure. This program is available for industrial or distribution projects. This program can be combined with several state programs to fund infrastructure needs.

Defiance County Business Development Fund Revolving Loan Fund - This loan program provides low interest loans for financing of early stage business development costs. Examples of these development items include: environmental surveys, business plans, and engineering studies.

Training Cost Assistance – Certain training costs associated with the hiring of new employees qualify for partial reimbursement through the Defiance County Department of Job & Family Services. Contact our office for more information.

State Incentive Programs

Ohio's Innovation Ohio Fund - The Innovation Ohio Fund was created to assist existing Ohio companies that develop next generation products and technologies. Financing is made available for the acquisition, construction, and related costs of technologies, facilities, and equipment. This program can finance up to 75% of the project's allowable costs to a maximum of $5 million and minimum of $250,000.

Ohio Enterprise Bond Fund - Provides funding for land and building acquisition, construction, expansion or renovation, and equipment for commercial or industrial projects between $1.5 million and $10 million in size. The bond fund would provide a fixed rate for up to 20 years.

166 Direct Loan - This loan program provides loans for land and building acquisition, expansion or renovation, and equipment purchase. The rate of the loan can be fixed at two-thirds of prime rate for a term of 5 to 15 years. The company must create or retain 1 job for every $15,000 received.

166 Regional Loan - This loan program provides loans for land and building acquisition, expansion or renovation, and equipment purchases. The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority administers this program. The rate of the loan is negotiable for a term of 5 to 15 years. The company must create or retain 1 job for every $35,000 received.

Minority Direct Loan - This loan program provides loans for the purchase or improvement of fixed assets for state certified minority-owned businesses. Financing can be provided for up to 40% of total project cost at a 4.5% fixed rate for up to 15 years. The company must be at least 51% minority owned and controlled and must be a state-certified minority business. The company also must create one job for every $35,000 received.

Ohio’s Reformed Tax Structure – Ohio’s tax structure was reformed and became effective July 2005. Discover the recent changes that will affect Ohio businesses and how Ohio’s tax structure compares to surrounding states.

Locate other Financing Programs provided by the State of Ohio.