Are there any free grants available to start-up businesses?
There are no free grants. There are specific grant programs targeted at energy efficiency, but a financial match by the applicant is required.

What counseling programs are available for small business?
There are a number of programs available for small businesses. The Small Business Development Center and the local Service Corp. of Retired Executives (SCORE) both have unique programs to offer. Businesses in the Uptown Historic District also have some programs available for improving retail establishments. For more information, contact our office at 419-663-2030.

At what point in my project should I contact Economic Development for assistance?
You should contact our Economic Development Team in your planning stages. If you decide to apply for and qualify for any incentives or financing programs, you cannot start the project until your application has been approved. This process will take time and the length depends on what you are applying for.

Does the City have information on sites and/or buildings available for sale or lease?
The Norwalk Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with our Buildings and Sites Response Team, maintains a list of available sites and buildings. We have many creative options for buying, leasing or building in our area. Please contact our office for more information at 419-663-2030.

How do you find out who owns a particular building and/or lot?
To determine who owns a specific property and for detailed information about it, contact the Huron County Auditor at www.huroncountyauditor.org.

How long does it take to process an application for state or local programs?
Our Economic Development Team can help walk you through the process. It usually takes 4-6 weeks on average. The community takes a very proactive stance towards business development, and we will work closely with you to see that the process moves as quickly as possible.

When can I begin the project?
The application has to be approved before moving forward. The Economic Development Team will help guide you through the process.

How do I find out the benefits if I participate in a program?
The Economic Development Team will work with you to estimate and evaluate the financial benefits.

Can this information be kept confidential?
Your inquiry into the programs will stay confidential. Our Economic Development team will begin discussions with your business to determine what program is an appropriate fit for your project. Once the application is formally submitted, the request will be presented in public meetings of both the incentives approval committee and then city council. At this time all documents become public.

How will the obligations I agreed to be monitored?
Every year your information will be reviewed by the appropriate committee to ensure the obligations and goals are being met according to the original agreement.