Incentives

Build in a City That Wants You

Tulsa succeeds when you do. That’s why TAEO, in coordination with the City of Tulsa, offers several incentives for new and expanding businesses to build here.

Incentives for Development

TAEO works to make your company’s growth easy by connecting you with flexible grant programs, development assistance and a dedicated staff to help you navigate incentive processes.

Tax Increment Finance

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a funding tool used to encourage and leverage private and public investment in specific areas of Tulsa. TIF is used to build and repair public infrastructure, encourage placemaking and assist in the development of unproductive properties.

Private Activity Bonds

Private Activity Bonds (PABs) are tax-exempt municipal bonds issued by the City of Tulsa on behalf of private borrowers. These bonds secure lower borrowing costs for non-government projects that benefit the public, such as affordable housing.

Economic Development Infrastructure Fund

The Economic Development Infrastructure Fund assists in the development of public infrastructure for job creation, expansion and retention projects. The current policy document that describes the program, criteria for qualification, and evaluation process can be found below.

Tax Abatement

Tax abatements offer relief from ad valorem taxes on improvements for a particular project and can be particularly impactful for community-oriented projects. Tax Incentive Districts typically provide a five-year abatement on local property taxes for specific development projects.

State Incentive Programs

Oklahoma has some of the lowest tax rates and some of the best tax incentives in the nation. The state offers companies a low cost of doing business, a low cost of living for employees, and tax rebates that reduce tax burdens even further. The State of Oklahoma also offers incentives for businesses looking to relocate to the state, from workforce tax credits to expansion incentives and more. TAEO staff is happy to help you navigate that process.

Business Liaison Services

TAEO provides concierge services for businesses and support for large projects through its Business Services Liaison. Businesses are encouraged to contact TAEO with coordination issues on permits or questions about City of Tulsa development processes.

How it Works

Incentive Process

Incentive requests are reviewed by standing committees comprised of City of Tulsa staff, TAEO staff, area partners and relevant city councilors. Exact processes vary by incentive, but generally follow these phases:

1

Application Submitted

Projects and companies submit a formal application provided by TAEO staff for the requested incentive after an initial meeting with staff.

2

Application Review

Applications are reviewed by TAEO staff according to industry standards and best practices in financial underwriting. Applications are reviewed to ensure that sufficient public benefit will be realized.

3

Incentive Approved

After an initial review, the application is approved by relevant committees, the TAEO Board of Trustees, and (if required) the Tulsa City Council.

4

Implementation & Monitoring

TAEO and City staff work collaboratively to implement the incentive, monitor contract obligations, and ensure the public benefit is realized.

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The Opportunity is Here.
Let’s Make It Yours.

Whether you’re building, investing or dreaming,
TAEO is here to help you make it happen in Tulsa.

Mike Dickerson

Senior Vice President of Incentives & Municipal Relations