Resources/Incentives

Existing Industry Program
Offered through the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership, economic development professionals team with the Knoxville Utilities Board, Tennessee Valley Authority and other partners to conduct site visits to learn more about the business, provide access to resources and help solve problems related to growth.

Knoxville Empowerment Zone
Located within the area designated for assistance by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, downtown businesses can take advantage of low-interest bonds, wage credits, special financing and other incentives.

One-Stop Shop
The Tennessee Small Business Development Center and the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership work together to provide counseling and consultation to companies as well as training, workshops and other relocation assistance.

Property Tax Incentive
Administered by the City and Knox County Industrial Development boards, this program allows new and expanding companies who qualify to freeze property tax payments; breaks are based on level of investment, creation of jobs, wages and location of the project.

Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development
The State maintains the largest single pool of job seekers, including professional, technical and managerial workers and provides screenings and recruiting to help new companies.

Tennessee Fast Track Infrastructure Program
The program is designed to offset industrial infrastructure improvement costs. The State conducts a cost benefit analysis and can provide up to $750,000 per project.

City Life Residential Development Incentives
Low-Interest Loans through a Revolving Fund - A low-interest construction loan, based on the amount of historic tax credits (up to 20 percent of the total rehabilitation cost), is available to qualified developers.

Minimum Charges for Plans Review and Permitting
Residential projects within the downtown historic districts are charged the minimum city fee for plans review (building, fire, gas, mechanical and plumbing) and inspections.

Parking Assistance
The City and the CBID offer a residential parking program. The CBID administers the program. Residents have access to dedicated parking adjacent to their downtown residences at a minimal cost.