Developing in Eau Claire means working with a city that values partnership. That’s why the Economic Development Division helps developers navigate local, state, and federal resources to help address project costs, site conditions, infrastructure needs, and other development challenges. Use this page to understand which tools may fit your project and how to access them.
JUMP TO INCENTIVE TYPE
Not sure where your project fits? Contact the Economic Development Division to discuss potential tools →
Bring underused, historic, or strategically located properties back into productive use with resources for infill development, adaptive reuse, rehabilitation, and larger public-private redevelopment efforts.
A local financing tool that uses future property tax revenue generated by growth in property value within a Tax Incremental District to help pay eligible development, redevelopment, and public improvement costs
Who May Qualify: Developers proposing eligible commercial, residential, mixed-use, or other projects within an active Eau Claire Tax Incremental District may be considered for assistance based on project feasibility, eligible costs, available district capacity, and City approval
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning to discuss the project and potential fit. Any TIF assistance is evaluated case by case and may require a development agreement and City Council approval.
Project-specific RDA involvement that can help advance redevelopment through property acquisition or assembly, land disposition, coordination, and other actions that support adopted redevelopment plans and objectives
Who May Qualify: Developers pursuing projects within Eau Claire redevelopment areas, involving RDA-controlled property, or otherwise advancing an adopted redevelopment plan or objective
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to discuss the property and proposed project. Staff can help determine whether RDA involvement may be appropriate. Any participation is evaluated case by case and requires appropriate Redevelopment Authority action.
Potential City participation in extraordinary site-preparation costs that can affect redevelopment feasibility, including demolition, grading, utility improvements, or other work needed to prepare a property for redevelopment
Who May Qualify: Developers undertaking qualifying redevelopment projects where unusual site conditions or preparation costs create a significant barrier to private investment
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning and before incurring costs for which assistance may be requested. Any City participation is evaluated case by case based on the project, eligible costs, available resources, and required approvals.
A Wisconsin income tax credit equal to 20% of qualified rehabilitation expenditures for eligible income-producing historic buildings, helping offset the cost of restoring and adapting historic properties for continued use
Who May Qualify: Owners rehabilitating qualifying income-producing buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places or contribute to a qualifying historic district and meet applicable preservation standards
How to Access: Begin the application process through the Wisconsin Historical Society before rehabilitation work starts. The proposed rehabilitation must be recommended by the State Historic Preservation Officer before physical construction or demolition begins, with WEDC responsible for certification of the state tax credit.
🔗 wedc.org
A federal income tax credit equal to 20% of qualified rehabilitation expenditures for the substantial rehabilitation of certified historic buildings used for income-producing purposes
Who May Qualify: Eligible owners or certain lessees rehabilitating certified historic structures that meet federal substantial-rehabilitation, historic-preservation, and income-producing-use requirements
How to Access: Begin the historic certification process through the Wisconsin Historical Society and National Park Service before rehabilitation work begins. Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the federal tax system, generally in equal installments over five years beginning when the rehabilitated building is placed in service.
🔗 irs.gov
A federal financing program that uses tax credits to attract private investment to qualifying businesses and real estate projects in low-income communities
Who May Qualify: Businesses and project sponsors with qualifying projects in eligible low-income communities that meet New Markets Tax Credit requirements (Residential rental property generally does not qualify, although eligible mixed-use projects may include a residential component)
How to Access: Businesses and developers generally seek financing from a Community Development Entity that has received New Markets Tax Credit allocation authority rather than applying directly to the federal government.
Federal tax incentives available to investors making qualifying investments through Qualified Opportunity Funds in designated Opportunity Zones
Who May Qualify: Taxpayers investing through Qualified Opportunity Funds in eligible businesses or real estate located within a designated Opportunity Zone
How to Access: Investments are structured through a Qualified Opportunity Fund rather than through the City. Developers and investors should work with qualified tax and legal advisers to confirm current census tract, investment, timing, and project eligibility before structuring a transaction.
🔗 irs.gov
A competitive Wisconsin grant that can support shovel-ready redevelopment projects involving building rehabilitation, infill development, historic preservation, mixed-use development, new construction, and related infrastructure improvements
Who May Qualify: Municipalities, Tribal entities, other eligible governmental authorities, and private developers designated by a municipality to pursue qualifying projects that demonstrate measurable benefits such as increased property value, job opportunities, or leveraged public and private investment
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning to discuss potential fit and local participation. Private developer applications require municipal authorization, and qualifying projects are submitted to WEDC for consideration.
🔗 wedc.org
A competitive Wisconsin grant that helps communities address significant barriers preventing large idle, abandoned, or underutilized commercial, institutional, and industrial properties from returning to productive use
Who May Qualify: Eligible Wisconsin governmental entities with qualifying properties that have generally been idle, abandoned, or underutilized for at least two years (Projects involving a private developer require an approved development agreement)
How to Access: The eligible governmental entity applies to WEDC. Developers considering an Eau Claire property should contact the Economic Development Division early to determine whether the site and proposed project may fit the program.
🔗 wedc.org
Federal funding awarded to the City of Eau Claire that may support eligible redevelopment activities such as property acquisition, rehabilitation, clearance, public improvements, and certain economic development activities
Who May Qualify: Projects and organizations that meet an applicable HUD national objective and align with the City’s Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and current funding priorities
How to Access: CDBG funding is administered locally by the City of Eau Claire Housing Division. Developers should contact City staff early to discuss whether a proposed activity is eligible, aligns with current priorities, and has a potential funding pathway.
Support new and existing housing projects with incentives and funding for construction, rehabilitation, preservation, and adaptive reuse, including affordable, mixed-income, and mixed-use development.
A local financing tool that may help address eligible development, infrastructure, or site costs associated with qualifying housing and mixed-use projects within an active Tax Incremental District
Who May Qualify: Developers of eligible residential or mixed-use projects within active Eau Claire Tax Incremental Districts, subject to project feasibility, eligible costs, available district capacity, and City approval
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning for a project-specific review. Any assistance is evaluated case by case and may require a development agreement and City Council approval.
Project-specific partnership opportunities that may help advance housing or mixed-use development when a project supports an adopted redevelopment plan or involves a strategically located property
Who May Qualify: Developers pursuing qualifying housing or mixed-use projects within Eau Claire redevelopment areas, involving RDA-controlled properties, or otherwise aligned with adopted redevelopment objectives
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to discuss the property and proposed project. Potential RDA participation is evaluated case by case and requires appropriate Redevelopment Authority action.
Potential project-specific City participation in extraordinary site costs that can affect the feasibility of qualifying housing or mixed-use development, including demolition, grading, utility improvements, or other work needed to prepare a property for development
Who May Qualify: Developers undertaking qualifying housing or mixed-use projects where unusual site conditions or preparation costs create a significant barrier to private investment
How to Access: Contact the Economic Development Division during project planning and before undertaking costs for which assistance may be requested. Any City participation depends on the project, eligible costs, available resources, and required approvals.
Financial assistance available through periodic City funding rounds to support the development or rehabilitation of properties that create or expand affordable housing within the City of Eau Claire
Who May Qualify: Project sponsors proposing qualifying new construction or rehabilitation projects that create or expand affordable housing within Eau Claire and meet the requirements of the applicable City request for proposals
How to Access: Funding is awarded through the City’s competitive proposal process when a funding round is available.
A federal tax-credit program that helps generate private equity for the construction, acquisition, or rehabilitation of qualifying affordable rental housing in exchange for long-term income and rent restrictions
Who May Qualify: Developers and project owners undertaking rental housing developments that meet federal requirements and WHEDA’s applicable Qualified Allocation Plan, affordability, market, financing, and development standards
How to Access: Apply through WHEDA, which administers federal Housing Tax Credits in Wisconsin. WHEDA allocates competitive federal 9% credits and administers federal 4% credits associated with qualifying tax-exempt bond financing.
A state income tax credit administered by WHEDA that is paired with the federal 4% Housing Tax Credit to generate private investment for qualifying affordable rental housing developments
Who May Qualify: Developers and project owners undertaking qualifying affordable or mixed-income rental housing developments that meet WHEDA’s Qualified Allocation Plan, affordability, financing, and other program requirements
How to Access: Apply through the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA). The State of Wisconsin Housing Tax Credit must be paired with the federal 4% Housing Tax Credit.
A federal tax incentive that can provide tax benefits to investors making qualifying investments through Qualified Opportunity Funds in eligible housing, mixed-use, or other real estate projects located within designated Opportunity Zones
Who May Qualify: Taxpayers making qualifying investments through Qualified Opportunity Funds in eligible real estate or businesses located within current Qualified Opportunity Zones
How to Access: Investments are structured through a Qualified Opportunity Fund rather than through the City. Developers should work with qualified tax and legal advisers to confirm current census tract, investment, and project eligibility before structuring a transaction.
🔗 irs.gov
A Wisconsin incentive available through the Business Development Tax Credit Program that can provide refundable tax credits for qualifying capital investments businesses make in workforce housing
Who May Qualify: Businesses located in or relocating to Wisconsin that meet Business Development Tax Credit requirements and make qualifying capital investments in workforce housing (The business must generally maintain or increase its Wisconsin employment while earning credits)
How to Access: Apply directly to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) through the Business Development Tax Credit Program before undertaking the qualifying project activities. An approved tax credit package may include credits equal to up to 15% of eligible workforce housing capital investment.
🔗 wedc.org
Federal funding administered by the State of Wisconsin through grants and loans to support the production and preservation of affordable housing for extremely low- and very low-income households
Who May Qualify: Eligible nonprofit and for-profit developers, housing authorities, and Tribal housing entities undertaking qualifying affordable rental housing projects that meet applicable income, rent, property, and long-term affordability requirements
How to Access: Apply through the Wisconsin Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources during an active Housing Trust Fund funding round. Funding is awarded through a competitive application process, and HTF-assisted units are generally subject to a minimum 30-year affordability period.
Federal funding provided to the City of Eau Claire that can support the development, acquisition, or rehabilitation of affordable housing for low-income households
Who May Qualify: Affordable housing projects and eligible development partners that meet federal HOME requirements and align with the City’s housing priorities, including applicable income, rent, property, affordability, and compliance standards
How to Access: HOME funding is administered locally by the City of Eau Claire Housing Division. Developers should contact City staff to discuss project eligibility, current funding availability, and applicable application or partnership requirements.
A competitive Wisconsin grant that may support housing as part of a qualifying mixed-use, infill, adaptive reuse, or broader community redevelopment project
Who May Qualify: Municipalities, Tribal entities, other eligible governmental authorities, and municipally designated private developers pursuing shovel-ready projects that include housing alongside qualifying redevelopment activities and demonstrate measurable community benefits
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning to discuss potential fit and local participation. Private developer applications require municipal authorization, and qualifying projects are submitted to WEDC for consideration.
🔗 wedc.org
Federal funding awarded to the City of Eau Claire that may support eligible housing rehabilitation, acquisition, neighborhood improvements, and other housing-related community development activities
Who May Qualify: Projects and organizations that meet an applicable HUD national objective and align with the City’s Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and current housing and community development priorities
How to Access: DBG funding is administered locally by the City of Eau Claire Housing Division. Developers should contact City staff early to discuss whether a proposed housing activity is eligible, aligns with current priorities, and has a potential funding pathway.
A competitive HUD program that supports comprehensive transformation of severely distressed public or HUD-assisted housing together with investment in the surrounding neighborhood and opportunities for existing residents
Who May Qualify: Eligible public housing authorities, local governments, Tribal entities, nonprofit organizations, and qualifying partnerships undertaking comprehensive housing and neighborhood transformation (For-profit developers may participate jointly with an eligible public entity where permitted)
How to Access: Funding is pursued through an eligible lead applicant during an active HUD competition. Developers typically participate as part of a larger local partnership rather than pursuing Choice Neighborhoods funding independently.
🔗 hud.gov
A state-administered program that uses federal and state funding to improve energy efficiency, health, and safety in existing housing occupied by qualifying low-income households, including eligible multifamily rental properties
Who May Qualify: Existing residential properties with income-eligible occupants that meet Wisconsin and federal weatherization requirements (Rental and multifamily properties are subject to additional occupancy, owner, and tenant-benefit requirements)
How to Access: Weatherization services are provided through a network of local agencies rather than awarded as conventional development financing. Owners or managers of existing rental properties should contact the appropriate Wisconsin weatherization provider to determine whether the property and its occupants qualify.
A Wisconsin income tax credit equal to 20% of qualified rehabilitation expenditures for eligible income-producing historic buildings, including qualifying rental housing and mixed-use properties
Who May Qualify: Owners rehabilitating qualifying income-producing historic buildings for rental housing, mixed-use, or other eligible uses that meet federal and state historic preservation requirements
How to Access: Begin the application process through the Wisconsin Historical Society before rehabilitation work starts. State approval is required before beginning work, and projects seeking both the state and federal credits must also receive the required National Park Service and WEDC approvals.
🔗 wedc.org
A federal income tax credit equal to 20% of qualified rehabilitation expenditures for the substantial rehabilitation of certified historic buildings used for rental housing, mixed-use development, or other income-producing purposes
Who May Qualify: Eligible owners or certain lessees substantially rehabilitating certified historic structures for rental housing, mixed-use, or another income-producing use that meets federal historic preservation requirements
How to Access: Begin the historic certification process through the Wisconsin Historical Society and National Park Service before rehabilitation work begins. Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the federal tax system in equal installments over five years beginning when the rehabilitated building is placed in service.
🔗 irs.gov
Grow or bring a business to Eau Claire with tools that may support expansion, capital investment, job creation, relocation, and development tied to growing employers.
Locally administered financing programs that can help Eau Claire businesses fill financing gaps for startup and expansion costs, equipment, real estate, building improvements, working capital, and other eligible investments
Who May Qualify: Businesses located within Eau Claire city limits that meet the eligibility, business-age, financing, and project requirements of an available City loan program (Eligible uses, loan amounts, terms, and other requirements vary by program)
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to discuss your business, financing needs, and potential program fit. Staff can help identify the appropriate loan program and walk you through eligibility and application requirements.
A City of Eau Claire incentive that supports manufacturing investment and job creation in the Gateway Northwest and Gateway West Business Parks through credits tied to new building value and employment growth
Who May Qualify: Manufacturers located in the Gateway Northwest or Gateway West Business Park that undertake qualifying building investment and job creation
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division before undertaking the project. Current program terms provide a $1,000 credit for each $100,000 of new building valuation and $1,000 for each new job created, subject to City Council approval.
Tax-exempt bond financing that can provide qualifying manufacturers with access to lower-cost capital for land, buildings, and equipment associated with new facilities, expansions, or other eligible industrial investments
Who May Qualify: Manufacturing businesses undertaking qualifying capital projects in Eau Claire that meet federal and state Industrial Revenue Bond requirements (Eligible costs may include land, buildings, and equipment, but not working capital)
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning to discuss whether Industrial Revenue Bond financing may fit the project. The City serves as the bond issuer for qualifying local projects, while WEDC allocates available state bonding authority. Federal requirements and local approvals also apply.
🔗 wedc.org
A local financing tool that uses future property tax revenue generated by growth in property value within a Tax Incremental District to help pay eligible business development, infrastructure, site, and other project costs
Who May Qualify: Developers or businesses proposing eligible commercial, industrial, mixed-use, or other projects within an active Eau Claire Tax Incremental District may be considered for assistance based on project feasibility, eligible costs, available district capacity, and City approval
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning to discuss the project and potential fit. Any TIF assistance is evaluated case by case and may require a development agreement and City Council approval.
Potential City participation in extraordinary site-preparation or infrastructure costs that can affect the feasibility of a business expansion, new facility, or related development project
Who May Qualify: Developers or businesses undertaking qualifying projects where unusual site conditions, demolition, grading, utility needs, access improvements, or similar costs create a significant barrier to private investment
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning and before incurring costs for which assistance may be requested. Any City participation is evaluated case by case based on the project, eligible costs, available resources, and required approvals.
Project-specific RDA involvement that can help advance business expansion or development through property acquisition or assembly, land disposition, coordination, and other actions involving strategically located or underused properties
Who May Qualify: Developers or businesses pursuing projects within Eau Claire redevelopment areas, involving RDA-controlled property, or otherwise advancing an adopted redevelopment plan or objective
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to discuss the property and proposed project. Staff can help determine whether RDA involvement may be appropriate. Any participation is evaluated case by case and requires appropriate Redevelopment Authority action.
A federal financing program that uses tax credits to attract private investment to qualifying businesses and real estate projects in low-income communities
Who May Qualify: Businesses and project sponsors pursuing qualifying business expansions, facilities, or commercial real estate projects in eligible low-income communities that meet New Markets Tax Credit requirements
How to Access: Businesses and developers generally seek financing from a Community Development Entity that has received New Markets Tax Credit allocation authority rather than applying directly to the federal government.
Federal tax incentives available to investors making qualifying investments through Qualified Opportunity Funds in eligible businesses or real estate projects located within designated Opportunity Zones
Who May Qualify: Taxpayers investing through Qualified Opportunity Funds in eligible operating businesses or real estate projects located within a designated Opportunity Zone
How to Access: Investments are structured through a Qualified Opportunity Fund rather than through the City. Businesses, developers, and investors should work with qualified tax and legal advisers to confirm current census tract, investment, timing, and project eligibility before structuring a transaction.
🔗 irs.gov
A Wisconsin incentive that helps qualifying early-stage businesses attract private equity by providing eligible investors with a state tax credit equal to 25% of qualified investments in companies certified through WEDC’s Qualified New Business Venture program
Who May Qualify: Eligible investors making qualifying cash equity investments in WEDC-certified early-stage Wisconsin businesses with potential for job growth, capital investment, and innovation (Businesses primarily engaged in real estate development and certain other industries are not eligible for QNBV certification)
How to Access: The business must first obtain QNBV certification from WEDC before a qualifying investment is made. Eligible angel investors, angel networks, and qualified venture funds may then receive tax credits for qualifying equity investments in the certified company.
🔗 wedc.org
A Wisconsin matching-grant program for road, rail, harbor, or airport improvements needed to attract, retain, or expand a specific job-creating business
Who May Qualify: Projects involving a specific, non-speculative business attraction, retention, or expansion where an eligible local governing body sponsors the transportation improvement and required job commitments can be met
How to Access: The local governing body applies to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation in partnership with the business. Contact the City early, as advertising construction or beginning certain ground-disturbing work before grant award and required WisDOT approvals can make the project ineligible.
Federal funding awarded to the City of Eau Claire that may support eligible economic development activities, public improvements, and other investments that create or retain jobs
Who May Qualify: Projects and activities that meet an applicable HUD national objective and align with the City’s Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and current economic and community development priorities (Business assistance must be structured as an eligible CDBG activity)
How to Access: CDBG funding is administered locally by the City of Eau Claire Housing Division. Businesses and developers should contact City staff early to discuss whether a proposed activity is eligible, aligns with current priorities, and has a potential funding pathway.
A federal grant program that supports public infrastructure and facilities that can help economically distressed communities attract private investment, expand businesses, and create or retain long-term jobs
Who May Qualify: Eligible state and local governments, Tribal entities, economic development districts, institutions of higher education, and qualifying nonprofit organizations pursuing projects that meet EDA requirements (Private businesses and developers are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Businesses or developers whose projects depend on qualifying public infrastructure should work with an eligible public or nonprofit sponsor to determine potential fit. Applications are submitted through EDA under its current Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance funding opportunity.
🔗 eda.gov
A flexible federal program that can support infrastructure, facilities, planning, business-support systems, and other investments that help communities respond to economic distress or structural change while supporting business and job growth
Who May Qualify: Eligible state and local governments, Tribal entities, economic development districts, institutions of higher education, and qualifying nonprofit organizations pursuing projects that meet EDA economic-development requirements (Private businesses and developers generally participate through an eligible project sponsor)
How to Access: Work with an eligible public or nonprofit sponsor to determine whether the proposed project and surrounding area meet EDA requirements. Applications are submitted through EDA under its current Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance funding opportunity.
🔗 eda.gov
A refundable Wisconsin tax credit that can support qualifying job creation, capital investment, employee training, corporate headquarters activity, and certain investments in workforce housing or company childcare facilities
Who May Qualify: Businesses located in or relocating to Wisconsin that meet WEDC requirements related to employment, capital investment, financial viability, project impact, and other program factors
How to Access: Apply directly to WEDC before undertaking the project activities for which credits are sought. Approved businesses enter into a contract with WEDC establishing the investment, employment, or other performance requirements that must be met to earn credits.
🔗 wedc.org
A refundable Wisconsin tax credit for significant business expansions or major operations relocating to the state, with credits tied to activities such as job creation or retention, capital investment, employee training, and purchases from Wisconsin suppliers
Who May Qualify: Wisconsin businesses undertaking significant expansion projects or companies relocating major operations from another state that meet WEDC’s employment, investment, financial, and other certification requirements
How to Access: Apply directly to WEDC for certification before credits are earned. For approved projects, WEDC establishes an Enterprise Zone for the business and enters into a contract defining the activities and performance requirements eligible for credits.
🔗 wedc.org
A Wisconsin income and franchise tax credit based on qualifying production income generated from eligible manufacturing or agricultural property located in the state
Who May Qualify: Individuals and business entities that own or rent and use qualifying Wisconsin manufacturing or agricultural property and generate eligible production activities income from that property
How to Access: Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the Wisconsin tax system. The credit is primarily relevant to operating manufacturers and agricultural businesses rather than real estate developers, and income attributable to constructing real property itself generally does not qualify.
A Wisconsin tax credit that can help offset the cost of qualifying research conducted in the state for new or improved products, processes, technologies, and other eligible business activities
Who May Qualify: Businesses and other taxpayers that incur qualified research expenses in Wisconsin and meet applicable state research-credit requirements
How to Access: Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the Wisconsin tax system. Partnerships, tax-option corporations, and certain LLCs generally compute the credit at the entity level and pass it through to eligible partners, members, or shareholders.
A federal investment tax credit for qualifying investments in facilities that manufacture semiconductors or semiconductor manufacturing equipment in the United States
Who May Qualify: Eligible taxpayers making qualified investments in property that is integral to a qualifying semiconductor or semiconductor-equipment manufacturing facility
How to Access: Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the federal tax system using Form 3468 and applicable IRS requirements. The credit is generally equal to 35% of qualified investment for eligible property placed in service after 2025, and construction of qualified property must begin before January 1, 2027.
🔗 irs.gov
Evaluate and prepare challenging sites with resources that can help identify environmental conditions, address contamination, remove redevelopment barriers, and ready properties for new investment.
Potential City participation in extraordinary site-preparation costs that can affect development feasibility, including demolition, grading, utility improvements, or other work needed to prepare a property for development or reuse
Who May Qualify: Developers undertaking qualifying projects where unusual site conditions or preparation costs create a significant barrier to private investment
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning and before incurring costs for which assistance may be requested. Any City participation is evaluated case by case based on the project, eligible costs, available resources, and required approvals.
Local coordination to help developers navigate assessment, cleanup, liability, and funding resources for properties affected by known or suspected environmental contamination
Who May Qualify: Developers evaluating, acquiring, or redeveloping properties where actual or potential contamination may complicate due diligence, financing, redevelopment, or reuse
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in the due-diligence process. Staff can help identify potentially relevant DNR, WEDC, EPA, and other programs or connect the project with the appropriate agencies and resources.
A local financing tool that uses future property tax revenue generated by growth in property value within a Tax Incremental District to help pay eligible site preparation, infrastructure, environmental, and other redevelopment costs
Who May Qualify: Developers proposing eligible projects within an active Eau Claire Tax Incremental District may be considered for assistance based on project feasibility, eligible site or infrastructure costs, available district capacity, and City approval
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning and before incurring costs for which assistance may be requested. Any TIF assistance is evaluated case by case and may require a development agreement and City Council approval.
Project-specific RDA involvement that can help address site-related redevelopment barriers through property acquisition or assembly, land disposition, demolition, coordination, and other actions that support adopted redevelopment plans and objectives
Who May Qualify: Developers pursuing projects within Eau Claire redevelopment areas, involving RDA-controlled property, or where RDA involvement may help advance an adopted redevelopment plan or objective
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to discuss the property and proposed project. Staff can help determine whether RDA involvement may be appropriate. Any participation is evaluated case by case and requires appropriate Redevelopment Authority action.
A Wisconsin DNR program that can support Phase I and Phase II environmental assessments, site investigation, and remedial action planning at brownfield properties where known or suspected contamination is creating a barrier to redevelopment
Who May Qualify: Local governments, eligible Tribal entities, and certain private entities with qualifying brownfield properties (Private entities may participate through contractor-services awards but are not eligible for community-managed awards)
How to Access: Contact the Wisconsin DNR Remediation and Redevelopment Program before applying to discuss the property, applicant eligibility, and appropriate WAM funding option. DNR offers both contractor-services awards and community-managed awards depending on the applicant and project.
A Wisconsin grant that can support environmental investigation and certain related demolition activities needed to assess and prepare eligible abandoned, idle, or underutilized industrial and commercial properties for redevelopment
Who May Qualify: Wisconsin cities, villages, towns, counties, redevelopment authorities, and Tribal entities with qualifying properties affected by suspected or documented environmental contamination (Private developers are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Developers considering an Eau Claire property should contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division or Redevelopment Authority to determine whether the site and proposed assessment activities may fit the program. An eligible public entity applies to WEDC for funding.
🔗 wedc.org
A federal grant program that helps communities and other eligible organizations identify brownfield properties, conduct environmental assessments, plan cleanup activities, and prepare contaminated or potentially contaminated sites for reuse
Who May Qualify: Eligible governmental, quasi-governmental, Tribal, and qualifying nonprofit or community development entities undertaking brownfield assessment activities (For-profit developers and individuals are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Developers should work with the City or another eligible organization to determine whether a property could be included in a proposed or existing EPA-funded assessment initiative. Grants are awarded to eligible applicants through competitive EPA Brownfields funding rounds.
🔗 epa.gov
A Wisconsin grant that can support environmental investigation, remediation, demolition, and other eligible cleanup activities needed to return contaminated industrial or commercial properties to productive use
Who May Qualify: Cities, villages, towns, counties, Tribal entities, businesses, and individuals with qualifying properties affected by demonstrated soil, groundwater, or vapor contamination and meeting applicable responsibility and program requirements
How to Access: Eligible public or private applicants may apply directly to WEDC. Applicants should coordinate with WEDC and the Wisconsin DNR early to confirm contamination, applicant responsibility, eligible activities, and other project requirements.
🔗 wedc.org
A Wisconsin DNR program funded through EPA that provides loans and grants for cleanup activities at brownfield properties that are ready to proceed into remediation
Who May Qualify: Local governments, eligible nonprofit organizations, and Tribal entities may qualify for grants, with grant recipients required to own the property, while only municipal entities may receive loans (Additional property, liability, match, and financing requirements apply)
How to Access: Contact the Wisconsin DNR before applying to discuss the property, cleanup plan, applicant structure, and funding pathway. Applications are accepted year-round, subject to available funding, and private developers generally participate in partnership with an eligible public, nonprofit, or Tribal applicant.
A competitive Wisconsin grant that can help communities address demolition, environmental remediation, infrastructure, and other significant barriers preventing large idle, abandoned, or underutilized properties from returning to productive use
Who May Qualify: Eligible Wisconsin governmental entities with qualifying commercial, institutional, or industrial properties that have generally been idle, abandoned, or underutilized for at least two years (Projects involving a private developer require an approved development agreement)
How to Access: The eligible governmental entity applies to WEDC. Developers considering an Eau Claire property should contact the Economic Development Division early to determine whether the site and proposed redevelopment may fit the program.
🔗 wedc.org
A competitive federal grant that can fund remediation and other eligible cleanup activities at qualifying brownfield properties owned by the applicant
Who May Qualify: Eligible governmental, quasi-governmental, Tribal, nonprofit, and other qualifying entities that own the property and meet EPA site, ownership, liability, and program requirements (For-profit developers and individuals are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Eligible property owners apply through an active EPA Brownfields Cleanup Grant competition. Developers should work with the City or another eligible owner early to determine whether the property, ownership structure, and proposed cleanup activities could qualify.
🔗 epa.gov
A competitive federal grant offered in selected funding cycles to help communities address multiple stages of brownfield redevelopment within a defined target area, including assessment, cleanup, and reuse planning
Who May Qualify: Eligible governmental, quasi-governmental, Tribal, nonprofit, and other qualifying entities pursuing coordinated brownfield work within an eligible target area (For-profit developers are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Funding is pursued through an eligible lead applicant during an active EPA competition. EPA will not offer a Multipurpose Grant competition in FY2027, so future availability will depend on later funding cycles.
🔗 epa.gov
Address infrastructure needs that can affect development, including roads, utilities, site access, public improvements, and multimodal connections.
A local financing tool that uses future property tax revenue generated by growth in property value within a Tax Incremental District to help pay eligible public infrastructure, utility, site access, and other development-related project costs
Who May Qualify: Developers proposing eligible projects within an active Eau Claire Tax Incremental District may be considered for assistance based on project feasibility, eligible infrastructure or site costs, available district capacity, and City approval
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning and before incurring costs for which assistance may be requested. Any TIF assistance is evaluated case by case and may require a development agreement and City Council approval.
Potential City participation in extraordinary infrastructure or site-preparation costs that can affect development feasibility, including utility improvements, grading, site access, or other work needed to prepare a property for development
Who May Qualify: Developers undertaking qualifying projects where unusual infrastructure, access, utility, or other site conditions create a significant barrier to private investment
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning and before incurring costs for which assistance may be requested. Any City participation is evaluated case by case based on the project, eligible costs, available resources, and required approvals.
Project-specific RDA involvement that can help coordinate property, infrastructure, and other improvements needed to advance redevelopment within an adopted redevelopment area
Who May Qualify: Developers pursuing projects within Eau Claire redevelopment areas, involving RDA-controlled property, or where infrastructure investment or property coordination may help advance an adopted redevelopment plan or objective
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to discuss the property, infrastructure needs, and proposed project. Staff can help determine whether RDA involvement may be appropriate. Any participation is evaluated case by case and requires appropriate Redevelopment Authority action.
A competitive Wisconsin grant that can support infrastructure improvements when they are part of a qualifying shovel-ready redevelopment project that delivers measurable community benefits
Who May Qualify: Municipalities, Tribal entities, other eligible governmental authorities, and municipally designated private developers pursuing qualifying redevelopment projects where infrastructure improvements support infill, mixed-use development, building reuse, historic preservation, or other eligible activities
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning to discuss potential fit and local participation. Private developer applications require municipal authorization, and qualifying projects are submitted to WEDC for consideration.
🔗 wedc.org
A competitive Wisconsin grant that can help communities fund infrastructure, demolition, environmental remediation, and other improvements needed to return large idle, abandoned, or underutilized properties to productive use
Who May Qualify: Eligible Wisconsin governmental entities with qualifying commercial, institutional, or industrial properties that have generally been idle, abandoned, or underutilized for at least two years (Projects involving a private developer require an approved development agreement)
How to Access: The eligible governmental entity applies to WEDC. Developers considering an Eau Claire property should contact the Economic Development Division early to determine whether the site, proposed redevelopment, and infrastructure needs may fit the program.
🔗 wedc.org
Federal funding awarded to the City of Eau Claire that may support eligible public facilities, infrastructure improvements, and economic development activities that meet federal requirements and local priorities
Who May Qualify: Projects and organizations that meet an applicable HUD national objective and align with the City’s Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and current community development priorities
How to Access: CDBG funding is administered locally by the City of Eau Claire Housing Division. Developers should contact City staff early to discuss whether infrastructure associated with a proposed development is eligible, aligns with current priorities, and has a potential funding pathway.
A federal grant program that supports public infrastructure and facilities that can help economically distressed communities attract private investment, support business growth, and create or retain long-term jobs
Who May Qualify: Eligible state and local governments, Tribal entities, economic development districts, institutions of higher education, and qualifying nonprofit organizations pursuing infrastructure projects that meet EDA requirements (Private developers and for-profit businesses are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Developers whose projects depend on significant public infrastructure should work with an eligible public or nonprofit sponsor to determine whether the project and surrounding area meet EDA requirements. Applications are submitted through EDA’s Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance funding opportunity.
🔗 eda.gov
A flexible federal program that can support infrastructure and other economic development investments that help communities respond to economic distress, structural change, or other barriers to long-term economic growth
Who May Qualify: Eligible state and local governments, Tribal entities, economic development districts, institutions of higher education, and qualifying nonprofit organizations pursuing projects that meet EDA economic-development requirements (Private developers and for-profit businesses generally participate through an eligible project sponsor)
How to Access: Developers should work with an eligible public or nonprofit sponsor to determine whether a proposed infrastructure project and surrounding area meet EDA requirements. Applications are submitted through EDA’s Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance funding opportunity.
🔗 eda.gov
A Wisconsin matching-grant program for road, rail, harbor, or airport improvements that are essential to attracting, retaining, or expanding a specific job-creating business
Who May Qualify: Projects involving a specific, non-speculative business attraction, retention, or expansion where an eligible local governing body sponsors the transportation improvement and required job commitments can be met
How to Access: The local governing body applies to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation in partnership with the business. Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early, as advertising construction or beginning ground disturbance within the right-of-way before grant award and required WisDOT approvals can make the project ineligible.
A competitive federal grant program for surface transportation projects with significant local or regional impacts, including qualifying roadway, transit, rail, maritime, and other multimodal improvements
Who May Qualify: States, local governments, Tribal governments, transit agencies, port authorities, and other eligible public project sponsors pursuing qualifying transportation investments (Private developers are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Development-related transportation improvements must be advanced through an eligible public project sponsor during an active U.S. Department of Transportation funding round. Developers may participate as project partners where private development is connected to or benefits from the proposed transportation investment.
Federal transportation funding administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for smaller-scale projects such as bicycle and pedestrian facilities, recreational trails, Safe Routes to School improvements, and other eligible transportation alternatives
Who May Qualify: Eligible local and regional governments, Tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, certain transportation or public-land agencies, and other qualifying project sponsors (Private developers are not direct recipients but may participate through an eligible sponsor)
How to Access: Eligible sponsors apply through WisDOT during competitive solicitation cycles. Developers whose projects could benefit from eligible pedestrian, bicycle, trail, or other connectivity improvements should coordinate early with the appropriate public or nonprofit project sponsor.
A competitive federal grant program that supports planning, demonstration activities, and implementation projects designed to reduce roadway fatalities and serious injuries for all users
Who May Qualify: Metropolitan planning organizations, eligible local governments and other political subdivisions, and federally recognized Tribal governments pursuing qualifying roadway-safety initiatives (Private-sector entities are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Development-related improvements must be incorporated into a qualifying public-sector roadway-safety initiative. Implementation Grants require an eligible comprehensive safety action plan and must address projects or strategies identified in or consistent with that plan.
A competitive federal grant program for nationally or regionally significant highway, freight, and multimodal transportation projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of moving people and goods
Who May Qualify: States, qualifying metropolitan planning organizations, local governments, political subdivisions, transportation authorities, port authorities, and other eligible public entities pursuing significant transportation projects (Private developers are not direct applicants)
How to Access: Projects must be advanced by an eligible public-sector sponsor through an active U.S. Department of Transportation INFRA funding competition. Developers may participate as partners where private development depends on, contributes to, or is part of a larger qualifying transportation project.
Advance catalytic projects with resources for community development, public spaces, innovation-driven businesses, entrepreneurial ecosystems, and qualifying clean-energy investment.
A competitive Wisconsin grant that can support catalytic community redevelopment projects involving infill development, adaptive reuse, mixed-use development, public infrastructure, and other investments that strengthen downtowns and redevelopment areas
Who May Qualify: Municipalities, Tribal entities, other eligible governmental authorities, and municipally designated private developers pursuing shovel-ready projects that demonstrate measurable benefits such as increased property value, job opportunities, or leveraged public and private investment
How to Access: Contact the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division early in project planning to discuss potential fit and local participation. Private developer applications require municipal authorization, and qualifying projects are submitted to WEDC for consideration.
🔗 wedc.org
Federal funding awarded to the City of Eau Claire that may support public improvements, economic development, housing, acquisition, and other eligible activities that strengthen neighborhoods and expand community opportunities
Who May Qualify: Projects and organizations that meet an applicable HUD national objective and align with the City’s Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and current community development priorities
How to Access: CDBG funding is administered locally by the City of Eau Claire Housing Division. Developers and project partners should contact City staff early to discuss whether a proposed activity is eligible, aligns with current priorities, and has a potential funding pathway.
A competitive Wisconsin grant that helps communities create or enhance public gathering spaces that encourage activity, strengthen community connections, and support surrounding businesses and districts
Who May Qualify: Municipalities, community development corporations, and nonprofit community organizations pursuing visible, community-supported public-space projects that are ready to move toward construction (Private developers are not direct applicants but may participate as project partners)
How to Access: Eligible organizations apply to WEDC during an active funding cycle. Under current program rules, communities with populations over 50,000 may be considered for an award each fiscal year, allowing Eau Claire to pursue the program annually.
🔗 wedc.org
A competitive HUD program that supports comprehensive transformation of severely distressed public or HUD-assisted housing and the surrounding neighborhood through coordinated housing, community, and economic investment
Who May Qualify: Public housing authorities, local governments, Tribal entities, nonprofit organizations, and qualifying partnerships addressing eligible distressed housing and the surrounding neighborhood (For-profit developers may participate jointly with an eligible public entity)
How to Access: Funding is pursued through an eligible lead applicant or partnership during an active HUD competition. Developers typically participate as part of a broader local transformation effort rather than pursuing Choice Neighborhoods funding independently.
🔗 hud.gov
Federal tax incentives available to investors making qualifying investments through Qualified Opportunity Funds in eligible businesses or real estate projects located within designated Opportunity Zones
Who May Qualify: Taxpayers investing through Qualified Opportunity Funds in eligible businesses, real estate, or other qualifying property located within a designated Opportunity Zone
How to Access: Investments are structured through a Qualified Opportunity Fund rather than through the City. Developers and investors should work with qualified tax and legal advisers to confirm current census tract, investment, timing, and project eligibility before structuring a transaction.
🔗 irs.gov
A federal financing program that uses tax credits to attract private investment to qualifying businesses, community facilities, and development projects in low-income communities
Who May Qualify: Businesses and project sponsors pursuing qualifying commercial, mixed-use, community-serving, or other eligible investments in low-income communities that meet New Markets Tax Credit requirements
How to Access: Businesses and developers generally seek financing from a Community Development Entity that has received New Markets Tax Credit allocation authority rather than applying directly to the federal government.
A Wisconsin tax credit that helps offset qualified research expenses for businesses developing new or improved products, processes, technologies, and other eligible innovations within the state
Who May Qualify: Businesses and other eligible taxpayers conducting qualified research in Wisconsin and incurring research expenses that meet applicable state tax requirements
How to Access: Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the Wisconsin tax system. For a development project, the credit is generally most relevant to an eligible operating business or tenant conducting research in the space rather than to the real estate developer itself.
A Wisconsin program that helps qualifying early-stage companies attract private equity by providing eligible investors with a state tax credit equal to 25% of qualified investments in WEDC-certified businesses
Who May Qualify: Early-stage Wisconsin businesses developing innovative products, processes, or services that meet WEDC certification requirements, along with eligible investors making qualifying equity investments in certified companies (Businesses primarily engaged in real estate development and certain other industries are not eligible for QNBV certification)
How to Access: The business must obtain QNBV certification from WEDC before a qualifying investment is made. Once certified, eligible angel investors, angel networks, and qualified venture funds may receive tax credits for qualifying cash-equity investments in the company.
🔗 wedc.org
A competitive federal grant program that helps organizations strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems, accelerate technology commercialization, support the growth of technology-driven businesses, and expand access to investment capital
Who May Qualify: Eligible public entities, nonprofit organizations, institutions of higher education, and other organizations leading qualifying entrepreneurship, technology-commercialization, or capital-access initiatives (Individual businesses and private real estate developers generally participate as beneficiaries or partners rather than direct grant recipients)
How to Access: Funding is offered through competitive U.S. Economic Development Administration rounds rather than as a continuously available project grant. Organizations should monitor EDA for future Build to Scale funding opportunities and applicable partnership, match, and program requirements.
🔗 eda.gov
A flexible federal grant program that can support regional strategies, infrastructure, planning, entrepreneurship, business-support systems, and other investments that help communities respond to economic distress or structural change
Who May Qualify: Eligible state and local governments, Tribal entities, economic development districts, institutions of higher education, and qualifying nonprofit organizations pursuing projects that meet EDA economic-development requirements (Private businesses and developers generally participate through an eligible project sponsor)
How to Access: Work with an eligible public or nonprofit sponsor to determine whether a proposed innovation, entrepreneurship, or economic-development initiative and the surrounding region meet EDA requirements. Applications are currently accepted on an ongoing basis through EDA’s Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance funding opportunity.
🔗 eda.gov
A federal investment tax credit for qualifying investments in clean-electricity generating facilities and energy-storage technology placed in service after December 31, 2024
Who May Qualify: Taxpayers making qualified investments in eligible clean-electricity facilities or energy-storage technology that meet applicable federal emissions, construction, labor, sourcing, and other requirements
How to Access: Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the federal tax system using Form 3468. Developers should work with qualified tax advisers early because credit value and eligibility can depend on technology, construction timing, labor standards, domestic content, location, and other federal requirements. Elective pay or transferability may also be available in qualifying circumstances, and §48E generally cannot be claimed for the same facility as the Clean Electricity Production Credit.
🔗 irs.gov
A federal production tax credit that provides an annual credit based on qualifying electricity generated by eligible zero-emissions facilities placed in service after December 31, 2024
Who May Qualify: Owners, or certain operators, of qualifying clean-electricity facilities that produce eligible electricity and meet applicable federal emissions, construction, labor, sourcing, and other requirements
How to Access: Eligible taxpayers claim the credit through the federal tax system using Form 7211 and applicable IRS requirements. Developers should evaluate §45Y alongside the Clean Electricity Investment Credit (§48E), as both generally cannot be claimed for the same facility. Elective pay or transferability may also be available in qualifying circumstances.
🔗 irs.gov
A competitive Wisconsin grant program that supports projects involving energy efficiency, renewable energy, energy storage, energy planning, and other energy innovations
Who May Qualify: Eligible applicants vary by funding round and may include municipalities, universities, schools, hospitals and similar public or nonprofit entities, as well as qualifying Wisconsin manufacturers
How to Access: Applications are submitted through the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin during active Energy Innovation Grant Program funding rounds. The 2026 application period has closed, so prospective applicants should monitor the Office of Energy Innovation for future opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Developers coming from other states may be familiar with incentives that work differently or aren’t available in Wisconsin. Here’s how some of the most common ones compare and what alternatives may be available here.
Some states allow local governments to reduce, freeze, or temporarily exempt property taxes for qualifying private development, or replace normal property taxes with a negotiated payment in lieu of taxes.
How Wisconsin Differs: Wisconsin generally does not allow municipalities to negotiate a lower property tax burden for otherwise taxable private development. Property taxation is subject to statewide uniformity requirements, and property tax exemptions are established by state law rather than negotiated project by project.
Closest Alternative: Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is the primary local alternative. The property remains taxable, but future tax revenue generated by increased property value may be used to help fund eligible development, redevelopment, infrastructure, or site costs. Major business projects may also qualify for refundable state tax credits through WEDC.
Some states or development authorities can exempt construction materials purchased for a qualifying private development from sales or use tax, reducing upfront project costs.
How Wisconsin Differs: Wisconsin does not provide a general discretionary sales tax exemption for construction materials used in private development. Contractors are generally treated as the consumers of materials incorporated into real property, although specific exemptions apply in certain circumstances established by state law.
Closest Alternative: There is no direct general equivalent for private development. Depending on the project, TIF, Community Development Investment Grants, Idle Sites funding, or other financing tools may help address eligible development costs.
In some states, cities can rebate or share a portion of the sales tax generated by a new retail, hospitality, entertainment, or mixed-use project as part of a development agreement.
How Wisconsin Differs: Eau Claire does not impose a city sales tax, so the City does not have a municipal sales-tax revenue stream that can be rebated or shared with an individual project.
Closest Alternative: TIF may help address eligible real estate, infrastructure, or site costs where a project generates sufficient property tax increment. State tax credits, grants, and infrastructure programs may also apply depending on the project.
Some states allow special districts to impose or capture sales taxes within a development area to finance roads, parking, utilities, public spaces, or other project infrastructure.
How Wisconsin Differs: Wisconsin does not provide Eau Claire with the same type of project-specific local sales-tax district used in some other states. Eau Claire does have Business Improvement Districts, but those are funded through special assessments on commercial property rather than a project-specific sales tax.
Closest Alternative: TIF is the primary district-based development financing tool. Business Improvement Districts, special assessments, development agreements, and other local mechanisms may also support qualifying district or infrastructure improvements.
Some states allow cities or counties to use local income, payroll, or employee-withholding taxes to provide performance-based rebates for businesses that create or retain jobs.
How Wisconsin Differs: Wisconsin law prohibits counties, cities, villages, towns, and other local political subdivisions from imposing a tax on income, so Eau Claire does not have a local income or payroll tax stream that can be rebated to a project.
Closest Alternative: Wisconsin uses state-level refundable incentives instead, including the Business Development Tax Credit and Enterprise Zone Tax Credit, which can support qualifying job creation, retention, capital investment, training, and other business activity.
Some states provide income tax credits based on a percentage of eligible environmental investigation or cleanup costs, sometimes allowing the credits to be transferred or refunded.
How Wisconsin Differs: Wisconsin’s brownfield assistance is structured primarily around grants, loans, environmental assessment programs, liability tools, and TIF rather than a broad state income tax credit for private cleanup costs.
Closest Alternative: Available tools include the Wisconsin Brownfields Grant, Wisconsin Assessment Monies (WAM), Ready for Reuse financing, TIF, EPA Brownfields funding, and environmental liability protections. The best fit depends on the property, contamination, ownership, and stage of redevelopment.
Some states or local governments reduce or waive real estate transfer, deed, or recordation taxes for qualifying redevelopment, affordable housing, or economic development projects.
How Wisconsin Differs: Wisconsin imposes a statewide real estate transfer fee, and exemptions are established by state law rather than negotiated locally as a development incentive. Eau Claire cannot create a project-specific exemption from the state transfer fee.
Closest Alternative: There is no direct local equivalent. Developers should account for applicable transfer costs when structuring an acquisition and evaluate TIF, grants, tax credits, or other financing tools separately for the broader project.
Schedule a Consultation
Reach out early, ideally while you’re still shaping your concept or running project pro formas. The City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division and our partners will walk through your site, timeline, and investment goals to identify potential incentives and approvals. Early discussions often save time later by ensuring your project aligns with district goals and funding requirements from the start.
Review the Project Fit
Once submitted, City staff will then review your proposal for compatibility with zoning, redevelopment plans, and community priorities. This stage helps confirm whether your project meets the criteria for incentive consideration and where adjustments might strengthen the application. You’ll get clear feedback and guidance to help refine your concept before formal submission.
Build the Incentive Package
If your project concept aligns with City plans and goals, the Economic Development Division will help structure an incentive package tailored to your needs. This may include modeling potential TIF participation, identifying supporting grants, or coordinating with partner agencies. Together, we’ll outline a realistic timeline for reviews and approvals so you can plan your financing and construction phases with confidence.
Secure Approvals
Depending on the type of incentive, formal approvals may be required from Eau Claire City Council, the Redevelopment Authority, the Loan Administration Board, or the Finance Department. We’ll help prepare the necessary materials, including development agreements, financial projections, and public benefit documentation, and guide you through the meeting schedule and process.
Implement the Agreement
After approvals are in place, agreements will be finalized so you can move into project delivery. The City tracks performance milestones like construction start, investment levels, occupancy, or job creation, ensuring accountability and mutual success. Our goal isn’t just to approve projects; it’s to see them built, occupied, and contributing to Eau Claire’s continued growth.
Connect with the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to explore incentive eligibility and timelines for your development project.