Companies that consider relocating, or expanding in Racine County have access to a diverse range of incentives to encourage business growth, investment and job creation. Racine County Economic Corporation (RCEDC) works with companies interested in a Racine County location to access incentive assistance to make their project a success in our community.
Availability of incentives is determined by:
- Project location
- Capital investment
- Job creation
For more information and assistance:
Eligible businesses creating jobs and making capital investments in Wisconsin may qualify for Business Development Tax Credits. Qualifying projects must include job creation of full-time positions over 3 years and capital investment. Projects must maintain job creation for an additional 2 years for a 5- year total reporting period.
Additional tax credits may be awarded if:
- Project is locating or retaining a Corporate Headquarters
- Wisconsin is competing for the investment with one or more out-of-state location
- Fifty percent of Eligible Employees’ wages are greater than 400 percent of the federal minimum wage
Wisconsin manufacturers can seek funding through the IRB program for building, land, and equipment purposes. According to the program rules, the maximum size of the IRB issuance is $10 million. IRBs can be used to stimulate capital investments and job creation by providing private borrowers with access to financing at interest rates that are typically lower than conventional bank loans.
For projects located in a Tax Increment District (TID), the municipality may choose to provide an incentive equal to a portion of the taxable property value added as a result of a project. Job creation and capital investment are considered by the community when determining level of assistance. RCEDC’s staff can assist you in determining if sites under consideration are located in a TID.
Supporting existing Racine County companies while taking into consideration the quality of jobs, capital investment, and needed assistance to facilitate the project moving forward. The terms of the loan are typically five years to allow for 3 years of job creation and 2 years of job retention. Loans may include deferred payment or forgiveness. Awards range in amount with the average project ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 per job.
Working closely with businesses to leverage available local and state workforce resources to meet the company’s needs.For projects located outside of a TID, the Tax Reinvestment Program (TRIP) may be used to provide an incentive equal to the municipal portion of the taxable property value added as a result of a project. Job creation and capital investment are considered by the community when determining level of assistance.
Wisconsin’s Manufacturing and Agriculture Credit essentially eliminates the tax on qualified income from manufacturing activity in the state by providing a 7.5% credit on corporate income*. The current state tax on corporate income is 7.9%. This credit is direct and non-competitive. Note: The credit is a percentage of “eligible qualified production activities income.”
CORP. TAX1
SALES TAX2
WISCONSIN
0.40%*
5.00%
Illinois
9.50%
6.25%
Indiana
4.90%
7.00%
Michigan
6.00%
6.00%
Minnesota
9.80%
6.875%
Hyperion Holdings Inc. has purchased an industrial building at 1800 Clark St. and 1825 Holborn St. in Racine to establish its first brick-and-mortar headquarters. Founded in 2022 by Sam Wahlen and Garrin Horwitz, the Sturtevant-based firm provides full-service residential property management, brokerage, and construction support for single-family and small multifamily investors across southeastern Wisconsin, using a technology-driven platform to streamline operations and reduce costs. The project was supported through a partnership between RCEDC and Advia Credit Union, which helped secure a Community Loan for the expansion.
The Foxville Gallery is a new contemporary art gallery coming to downtown Burlington, owned and operated by artist and entrepreneur Amy Lynn Ross. The gallery will spotlight professional artists with a strong focus on Wisconsin-based talent through rotating exhibitions, while the second floor of the property at 525 N. Pine Street will offer a unique gallery-inspired Airbnb experience known as The Fox on Pine. This project was made possible through the partnership between RCEDC and Community State Bank, working with lender Ben Bruno, AVP Business Banker, to secure a Community Loan that helped bring this creative vision to life.
DW Coffee LLC is expanding from its Rochester location into Wind Lake with the purchase of real estate and equipment at 7910 S Loomis Rd. Owner Leslie Kinsey, who launched the business in 2021, will continue overseeing operations with support from her husband, Shawn. With help from lender Jay Cashmore at Community State Bank and RCEDC, funding was secured through the Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), making the new location—with drive-thru service—possible.
Sound Decisions, a longtime automotive and electronics business in Racine County, is expanding its operations with the purchase of four adjacent commercial condominiums in Yorkville. Owner Chris Hilbert—who took over the business from his parents in 2013—will consolidate two companies, Sound Decisions and Echo Sales/MED, under one roof. With financing support from RCEDC and Josh Sopczak at Town Bank, Chris secured a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) with just 10% down, helping move this expansion forward. Today, the business operates as both a retailer and a regional distributor for top brands like Alpine, Viper, and Metra.
Oak Wine & Spirits is bringing a new tasting experience to downtown Waterford—offering self-serve wine and beer stations, premium spirits, and curated small bites in a relaxed, upscale setting. Owners John Palmer and Rebecca Vanwormer, both experienced local business owners, are combining their strengths to create a welcoming destination for both casual visitors and enthusiasts. With support from RCEDC and lender Jay Cashmore at Community State Bank, the pair secured Revolving Loan Fund financing with just 15% down, helping turn their vision into a reality.
Destroy Iron Fitness, owned by Cornelius Knottnerus (Neil) and Melissa Webster, is expanding its offerings with the help of a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), which covered 90% of the cost for new equipment. Since taking over in 2024, Neil has led the transformation of the gym into a 24/7 fitness center specializing in bodybuilding and strength training. With unused space ready to be filled and a commitment to creating a premier training environment, the new equipment will help round out their offerings and take the gym to the next level.
RCEDC helped secure a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) for Modern Aesthetics Skincare to purchase a new MOXI laser, replacing outdated equipment and expanding the clinic’s advanced skincare offerings. Owned and operated by Cala Newholm, a licensed esthetician with over a decade of experience, the clinic opened in 2022 and offers personalized treatments to meet a variety of skin care needs.
I worked with BLP to secure an RLF loan and structured a deal with just 10% down. BLP and I worked seamlessly to make it happen.
The RCEDC team really worked hard to come up with the best solutions for both projects. They are great at keeping everyone on track and making sure that there are no surprises at the closing. The client was very happy with the results.
RCEDC’s Business Growth Solutions event brought Racine County’s entrepreneurial spirit to life, drawing over 50 business owners, lenders, and community members for a celebration of local success.
The owner of Lavagio Express Laundry has over 20 years of experience that turned an entrepreneurial vision into reality with the opening of this modern laundromat in Mount Pleasant, WI.
The Racine County Economic Development Corporation (RCEDC) and its partner communities are proud to present a comprehensive overview of loans and grants specifically designed to support local small businesses.
RCEDC’s mission is to grow Racine County’s property tax base by supporting business expansions and providing employment opportunities to Racine County residents. In 2025, RCEDC staff were able to facilitate 84 projects that included comprehensive site selection, loans, grants, and incentives resulting in $158 million in expansion projects and/or new developments. RCEDC’s Loan Committee and Board of Directors approved $22 million in loans and grants to facilitate this private investment.
- Tax-deductible contribution (RCEDC is a 501C(3) org.)
- Discounted admission to all RCEDC events
- Support RCEDC’s mission
- Marketing of your company to RCEDC prospects
- Highlight your company as a preferred resource