Business Friendly Incentives & Resources
The City of Canton & Special Improvement District offers a variety of Grants and Incentives for businesses that are planning to relocate or expand in our historic downtown.
SID Rental Assistance
New or expanding businesses in Downtown Canton, Ohio can receive up to $10,000 in rental assistance during their first year of operations. Through this program, the Downtown Canton Partnership (DCP) reimburses 50% of a business’ annual rent payments when they have secured a multi-year lease within the Special Improvement District (SID).
Storefront Reinvestment Program
Assists commercial and retail properties in Canton’s Core Targeted Investment Areas by providing a 50% rebate, up to $25,000, on eligible exterior façade improvements. The program supports renovation projects including structural rehabilitation, window replacement, exterior doors, awnings, lighting, security enhancements, painting, masonry repair, and business signage.
Interior Renovation Program
Supports qualifying businesses in designated zoning districts by providing a 50% rebate, up to $24,999, on comprehensive interior renovation projects. Eligible improvements include lighting fixtures, plumbing and HVAC systems, flooring, painting, ADA compliance upgrades, expansion costs, permitting, interior demolition, and architectural or engineering services related to interior work.
Public Realm Reinvestment Program
The Public Realm Reinvestment Program assists commercial and retail properties in Downtown Canton and designated target investment areas by providing a 50% rebate, up to $25,000, on improvements to public spaces adjacent to privately owned properties. Eligible projects include sidewalk and concrete repairs, landscaping, sidewalk café enhancements, streetscape furnishings, and environmental signage or public art installations.
City of Canton Business & Tax Incentives
The City of Canton has competitive financial incentives for companies that locate or expand in the city, including job retention and creation grants, property tax exemption, and tax increment financing. The city also has several opportunity zones to foster investment. Projects will be evaluated individually based on factors such as the number of jobs created, total investment, and payroll size.