Assistance Programs

For more information about the assistance programs available to businesses locating to or already located in DeKalb County, please contact the us at 888-421-7957.

Industrial Development Grant Program

Site Preparation

County and local municipalities can receive site preparation grant money to assist new and expanding industries. These grants can be used for land and labor surveys, site preparation, and to provide access to qualifying sites.

Grants are based upon the amount of capital investment:

Capital Costs Percentage of Capital Costs
Less than $200,000 5.0%
$200,000 – $499,000 3.5% (minimum $10,000)
$500,000 – $999,999 2.5% (minimum $20,000)
$1,000,000 – $1,999,999 1.5% (minimum $28,000)
$2,000,000 – $9,999,999 1.0% (minimum $32,000)
$10,000,000 – 0.75% (minimum $100,000)
Maximum $150,000

Other Programs

Alabama Economic Development Infrastructure Grant Program

Grants are available to county and local municipalities to be used for the extension of water, sewer, and road facilities. These grants are used to provide assistance to new and expanding industries.

Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBS)

IRBs may be used as long-term financing of up to 100% of a project for:

  • Acquisition of land, buildings, site preparation and improvements
  • Construction of buildings
  • Acquisition and installation of furnishings, fixtures, and equipment
  • Capitalizable soft costs (e.g. architectural and engineering, interest incurred during construction, cost associated with bond issuance, etc.).

Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments (TARCOG)

TARCOG

TARCOG offers a Revolving Loan program for new expanding businesses.

USDA Rural Development

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides technical and business support programs for businesses as well as grants and loans.

Tennessee Valley Authority Programs

The Tennessee Valley Authority has several loan and business assistance programs available for companies locating to or already located in DeKalb County. Existing businesses already located in DeKalb County can take advantage of TVA assistance programs too.

  • Valley Investment Initiative
  • Deposit Assurance Program
  • Economic Development Funds
  • Special Opportunities Counties Fund
  • Energy Efficiency Loans

Resources for Businesses

Made in Alabama

ALDoC

The Department of Commerce has compiled a list of organizations that offers assistance to small businesses in a number of areas.

Atlas Alabama

Atlas Alabama

Starting a new business in Alabama? The Atlas Alabama website can help you develop your business plan, choose your business structure, choose and register your business name, and estimate your startup costs. Information about City, State, and Federal resources, as well as other useful resources for businesses and entrepreneurs are included throughout the site.

The Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship

Catalyst Center

The Catalyst is a non-profit organization that offers assistance to women and men in North Alabama who want to start or grow their business.

Small Business Development Centers

UAH

Another resource through the Small Business Administration is a network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) that provide a wide range of information and guidance in training and counseling services. The SBDC that serves DeKalb County is located at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

Chambers of Commerce

DeKalb County businesses are fortunate to have three chambers of commerce – Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, Henagar Chamber of Commerce, and Rainsville Chamber of Commerce. These organizations provide support and networking opportunities for area businesses, as well as a unified voice in legislation.

Fire Training Programs

Fort Payne Fire and Rescue offers basic fire training courses for local industries. These courses cover such topics as CPR and fire extinguisher training. Industrial fire training courses are also available at the Alabama Fire College, including courses for fire brigade, fire protection system, confined space and high level rescue, hazardous materials, and incident command.

International Resources

There are several statewide associations and resources available for internationally-based companies. The state associations include the AlabamaGermany Partnership and the Japan America Society of Alabama.  Additionally, the state has several Japanese Saturday Supplemental Schools. Visit the Education page, for more information about the Saturday Schools.