There are many resources available to existing DeKalb County businesses, including grants, loans, workforce training, and other business assistance programs.

Services from DCEDA

DeKalb County EDA provides a dedicated commitment to assure that our existing industry has focused support to meet their needs.

 The services that we are able to provide are:

• Assistance with expansion projects on tax abatements and incentives
• Leadership Training Skills through a partnership with Alabama Industrial Development Training
• OSHA Workshops
• EEOC Workshops
• Annual Wage and Benefit Survey
• Industry Forums that offers networking opportunities with industry and community leaders
• Industrial Directory
• Updates and support on workforce development
• Custom Industry Surveys
• Serve as a liaison to city, county, state and federal agencies
• Research Projects

BR&E Program

Under the umbrella of the BR&E program the organization of an Industry Alliance group is being developed to serve as the focus group for networking opportunities.

• Inside Industry – Meetings that are sponsored by industry offering industry tours, company history and networking for industries in DeKalb County.

Tax Incentives

Companies who are expanding their facilities and adding new job positions may qualify for the income tax capital credit. Visit the Alabama Department of Revenue website for a full overview of this incentive.

Grants and Loans

Qualifying expanding companies may be able to take advantage of site preparation grants through the Industrial Development Grant program and the Alabama Infrastructure Grant Program. Additional Industrial Revenue Bonds are also available to qualifying companies. For more information, visit the Business Assistance section of this website or contact the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority staff at 888-421-7957.

Workforce Training

Northeast Alabama Community College offers a wide variety of skills training courses that are based on the needs of area industries. The courses, workshops, and seminars offered through the college are very flexible and can be customized for your number of employees, class location preference, and topic. Visit the Northeast Alabama Community College website for more information.

Business Assistance from the 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.

Meeting Facilities

There are several meeting facilities available throughout DeKalb County that businesses can use. Click here to download a meeting facilities guide. (PDF)

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.