Welcome to the City of Erie!
There may never have been a better time to bring your business to the City of Erie, than right now. Incentives, tax abatement programs, retail business support and a superior work force make Erie a great place to do business. Companies located here are within 500 miles of half the U.S. population and enjoy the amenities of one of the most beautiful Great Lakes in America. Â
The luxury of being located on Lake Erie has always been an attractive incentive to businesses. Water will not be a problem here, we have plenty of it. Our $300 million water system offers virtually a limitless supply of water. New industrial developments will enjoy the 40% discount from their company’s monthly charge for water provided by the Erie Water Authority during the first five years following construction.  This could result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings to companies that need a large supply of water.
Companies building or renovating in the City of Erie will also enjoy an exemption of property taxes for several years on improvements under the LERTA (Local Economic Tax Revitalization Assistance) Program. Additionally, the City offers similar assistance for residential properties. In November, 2007, the City, School District County taxing bodies adopted ordinances to provide for an investment incentive for new construction within the City of Erie. This is commonly referred to as LERTA. Click here to view the Lerta Zone Map.
Through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ) Program, companies are provided with ‘virtual’ tax-free zones through 2013 and in some cases until 2018. There are several Keystone Opportunity Zone sites within the City. Under the KOZ Program the Commonwealth has agreed to forego PA Corporate Net Income Taxes, Capital Stock and Foreign Franchise Taxes and State Sales and Use Tax (purchases consumed and used by business in the Zone). In addition, local communities agree to forego Property Tax, Earned Income/Net Profits Tax, etc. Additionally, companies that locate in a KOZ receive priority consideration for state assistance.
Through our State of Pennsylvania designated Erie Enterprise Zone companies that qualify can receive low interest loans for up to 50% of project cost, not to exceed $250,000 on terms ranging from 3 to 15 years depending upon the purpose.ÂThese loans can be used for real estate purchase, renovations, machinery and equipment.ÂThe funds are tied to creation and/or preservation of jobs.
These are just a few of the tools that we have available to help your business be successful in Erie, Pennsylvania. One phone call will put you in touch with all of the economic development professionals available to assist you. Our approach to Economic Development in the City of Erie is to make the process as seamless as possible. For more information on growing your business in Erie please call Director, Kim Green at 814/870-1270.