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Business owners regularly face problems as simple as needing graffiti removed from their storefront, or as complex as resolving a problem with a city permit or business license. Whether you're looking to answer a specific question or you're not sure where to go for help, the Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce can act as an advocate in addressing your concerns. Please contact us if you have an issue that you're not sure how to resolve.
The City of Chicago offers a number of programs to help business owners deal with the everyday issues they encounter. We'll be happy to provide more information about the programs that help businesses, including the city's Façade Rebate Program, Property Tax Incentive Program and several loan programs. |
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Business Express
Business Express is the Chicago business community's link to city- and community-based programs that solve business problems. Businesspeople who call 312.744.CITY are referred to a Business Express account manager who will provide prompt, accurate information to help you solve your problem.
Maybe you've noticed an abandoned car that should be towed, you need a permit issued, or you're interested in learning more about city loan programs, infrastructure improvements or job training resources. Business Express is the first step to getting answers to these and a host of other business related questions.
Department of Planning and Development
Business and Public Affairs
121 North LaSalle Street, Room 1003
Chicago, IL 60602
P. 312.744.CITY
Façade Rebate Program
The Façade Rebate Program increases the physical attractiveness and marketability of Chicago's industrial and commercial areas by giving financial and technical assistance with business property renovation. The program provides rebates for various façade rehabilitation activities, including:
- complete façade renovation
- exterior lighting
- new signs
- graphics
- windows
- doors
- window displays and awnings
- passive security and energy conservation systems
- truck docks
Industrial buildings are eligible for a rebate of 30% of the approved cost, up to $10,000 per façade unit. Commercial retail buildings are eligible for a rebate of 50% of the approved cost, up to $5,000 per leasable business space. The maximum rebate per application is $40,000. Applicants must install a minimum of $2,000 in façade improvements to be eligible for the program. New construction is not eligible. The City of Chicago encourages projects that reduce slum and blight, create jobs and/or improve conditions for low- and moderate-income residents.
Department of Planning and Development
Landmarks Division
33 North LaSalle Street, Room 1600
Chicago, IL 60602
P. 312.744.3200
Property Tax Incentive Program
The Property Tax Incentive Program provides financial assistance to attract new industry, stimulate expansion of existing industry and increase employment opportunities. Property tax incentives for businesses are designed to encourage industrial and commercial development, to aid in the revitalization of communities suffering economic stagnation and to increase job opportunities.
The Class 6(b), Class 7(a), Class 7(b) and Class 8 incentives are Cook County programs administered through the Cook County Assessor's Office. Although the City of Chicago may pre-qualify certain projects through its Department of Planning and Development, it is the Cook County Assessor's Office which authorizes and makes the legal determination whether projects qualify for real estate tax incentives.
Department of Planning and Development
Finance Division
121 North LaSalle Street, Room 1006
Chicago, IL 60602
P. 312.744.CITY
Micro Loan Program
The Micro Loan Program provides business loans to eligible Chicago small businesses which create jobs for Chicago residents by expanding in or relocating to the city. The program provides loans of up to $20,000 to existing small businesses located in Chicago for projects that create jobs. It addresses the needs of very small businesses that cannot obtain conventional loans through banks. Loans are made at a flat 3% or 75% of the prime rate, depending on the location and type of the business. Funds can be used for machinery, equipment, renovation or working capital.
The Department of Planning and Development reviews projects for complete compliance with all federal, state and local program requirements. The project must satisfy a national objective such as job creation, and must demonstrate financial need and benefit to the public.
Department of Planning and Development
Finance Division
121 North LaSalle Street, Room 1006
Chicago, IL 60602
P. 312.744.CITY
Bank Participation Loan Program
The Bank Participation Loan Program provides business loans through banks to eligible Chicago industrial and commercial businesses which are expanding within the city limits and are creating jobs for Chicago residents. The Department of Planning and Development will participate in small business loans from 20% up to 50% of the total amount of a project at a low interest rate. For commercial businesses, the maximum participation is $250,000 with an interest rate of either 3% or 75% of the prime rate, depending on the location and the type of business. Funds can be used for construction, renovation and fixed assets. Applicants apply for a loan through a financial institution, while the lender applies to the Department of Planning and Development for the city's participation.
Department of Planning and Development
Finance Division
121 North LaSalle Street, Room 1006
Chicago, IL 60602
P. 312.744.CITY |
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