Abilene is the economic center of West Central Texas, anchored by three universities, Dyess Air Force Base, and a diversified economy spanning manufacturing, healthcare, energy, and agriculture. The Development Corporation of Abilene (DCOA) is one of the most active economic development organizations in the region, and surrounding rural communities provide access to USDA programs.
Abilene Economic Development Programs
Development Corporation of Abilene (DCOA)
The DCOA is funded by a half-cent sales tax and actively recruits and supports businesses. Programs include cash incentives tied to job creation, building and infrastructure improvements, training assistance, and relocation support. The DCOA has been recognized nationally for its aggressive approach to economic development in a smaller market.
City of Abilene Incentives
Abilene offers Chapter 380 agreements and property tax abatements for qualifying businesses. The city has designated Enterprise Zones and works closely with the DCOA to assemble comprehensive incentive packages for businesses creating jobs or making capital investments.
Dyess Air Force Base Programs
Dyess AFB creates procurement and contracting opportunities for local businesses. The Abilene Military Affairs Committee works to maintain and grow the base's mission, while businesses can access PTAC counseling for government contracts and Boots to Business programs for transitioning service members.
Taylor County Resources
Taylor County businesses access Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas for employer services including hiring incentives, training programs, and labor market data. The West Central Texas Council of Governments coordinates regional planning and federal program access.
Key Industries in Abilene
Manufacturing
Abilene has attracted significant manufacturing investment, including wind turbine manufacturing and food processing. Manufacturers can access the sales tax exemption on production equipment, DCOA cash incentives, Skills Development Fund training grants, and property tax abatements.
Wind Energy
The Abilene area is a major wind energy corridor. Energy businesses can access REAP grants for renewable energy projects, Production Tax Credits, TCEQ emissions reduction grants, and workforce training for wind technicians.
Healthcare and Education
Three universities and Hendrick Health drive the education and healthcare economy. Healthcare businesses can access HRSA grants, workforce training programs, and SBA lending. The universities support SBIR/STTR research partnerships for qualifying businesses.
State Programs for Abilene Businesses
- Texas Enterprise Fund: Deal-closing grants for major job creation and capital investment projects.
- Skills Development Fund: Workforce training grants through local community colleges and technical institutions.
- Texas HUB Certification: State procurement preferences for historically underutilized businesses. Learn about HUB certification.
- Texas Enterprise Zone Program: State sales tax refunds for businesses creating jobs in designated areas.
Federal Programs
- SBA Loans: 7(a), 504, and microloan programs available through SBA-approved lenders in the region. Learn about SBA 7(a) loans.
- SBIR/STTR: R&D grants for businesses conducting research with commercial potential.
- WOTC: Tax credits of $2,400 to $9,600 per qualifying hire from target groups. Learn about WOTC.
- HUBZone: Federal contracting preferences for businesses in qualifying census tracts.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Abilene businesses are often eligible for multiple programs at the local, state, and federal levels simultaneously. Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →