Incentives
In 2024, Downtown Jackson experienced over $7.6 million in public and private investment, including 28 building rehabilitation projects and the addition of 21 new businesses. With updated master plans, design guidelines, and a variety of economic development tools available within the Downtown District, now is the perfect time to explore your next property or business opportunity in Downtown Jackson. Let JDDC help you connect to the development tools and resources below.
Downtown Jackson Revenue Finance Corporation (PILOT)
The DJRFC PILOT (Payment-in-lieu-of-tax) is a financial incentive used to encourage significant renovation of underutilized or vacant commercial and residential properties in the Downtown District. DJRFC PILOTs hold property taxes at a pre-development level for a set amount of time as determined by a grading system administered by the Downtown Jackson Revenue Finance Corporation. Contact JDDC for more information.
Community Redevelopment Agency (TIF Districts 1 & 2)
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a program through which tax revenue increases within a designated area may be reallocated for infrastructure improvements within that area. Eligible projects may be presented to the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for funding consideration.
Federal Historic Tax Credit Program
The program provides a 20% historic tax credit for certified historic structures. In order to become certified, projects must be reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office and the Technical Preservation Services division of the National Park Service (NPS). Applicants should contact the Tennessee Historical Commission (THC) before starting a project. Email Justin Heskew to determine if your property qualifies.
Federal Historic Preservation Fund Grant (HPF)
HPF grants are matching grants and will reimburse up to 60% of the costs of approved costs for projects with a public benefit. The remaining 40% must be provided by the grantee as matching funds. Grant applications for the next round should be open January 19, 2026 and run through February 28, 2026, based on federal budget approvals. Grant awards typically average between $15,000-$65,000 to ensure as many projects as possible throughout the state are funded. More information
Backing Small Business Grant
The Backing Small Businesses grant program, supported by American Express, will offer 400 grants of $10,000 to locally significant small businesses pursuing projects that enhance long-term resilience, promote sustainable growth, and strengthen their positive impact within the community. Applications have closed for the 2025 Backing Small Business grant program. More Info
AMEX Shop Small Grant
American Express is teaming up with Main Street America this Small Business Saturday® to launch the Amex Shop Small Grants Program. The Program will provide an initial $5 million to fund 250 grants of $20,000 each to eligible small business owners across the U.S. Plus, every time an American Express Card Member shops with their eligible Card at a qualifying U.S. small business on November 29, 2025, American Express will donate an additional $1 to fund additional grants. Applications are open from November 29, 2025, to Friday, January 16, 2026 at 11:59 CT. More Info