Financial Programs

Financial Programs

The UEZ Loan Pool provides financial assistance with flexible terms and below-market rate loans to large commercial projects located within the City’s Urban Enterprise Zone. Projects can range from land acquisition and new construction to physical improvements, equipment and working capital.

The UEZ Loan Pool program leverages financing from the UEZ, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and private lenders to provide loans for large commercial or industrial projects.

The Commercial Loan program offers below-market fixed rate loans to Elizabeth’s small, growing businesses for the purchase of fixed assets, as well as construction or renovation projects.

The Working Capital Loan Program offers below-market fixed rate, short-term financial assistance to Elizabeth small businesses with a minimum two-year operating history.

Funds from this program can be used for working capital expenditures including inventory, marketing and soft costs. Funds cannot be used for refinancing existing debt or speculative investment.

The Micro-Enterprise Loan/Grant program is a groundbreaking effort to target neighborhoods where opportunities exist, but financial assistance is often not available.

The program was initially launched to jump-start the revitalization of the Elizabethport section of the City. The program offers a combination of below-market fixed rate loans and grant assistance to small businesses looking to startup or expand.

The Signage Grant Program also plays a critical role in the City’s efforts to revitalize its business districts by providing business owners with financial incentives to restore, replace or upgrade their commercial signage.

The Façade Improvement Grant program plays a critical role in the City’s efforts to revitalize its business districts. The program provides business owners with financial incentives to restore, refurbish or remodel their façades.

The Facade Improvement Grant program aims to support businesses in their efforts to make their location more appealing with improvements such as new awnings, door repair and replacement, painting, window repair and replacement, security gates, and exterior lighting.

The Graffiti Removal Grant program is another vital tool in the City’s efforts to revitalize its business districts by providing business owners with financial assistance in their battle against graffiti. The program directly helps businesses keep graffiti from undermining the beauty and security of their shopping districts.