Georgetown is the county seat of Williamson County and one of the fastest-growing cities in the Austin metropolitan area. Known for its historic Victorian downtown square, Georgetown has balanced historic preservation with aggressive economic development. The city made national news by becoming one of the largest cities powered entirely by renewable energy, and its development strategy combines quality-of-life investments with business attraction.
Georgetown Economic Development
Georgetown Economic Development
Georgetown's economic development team works with the Georgetown Chamber and Williamson County economic development partners on business attraction and retention. Programs include performance- based incentive agreements, site selection assistance, and infrastructure support for qualifying projects.
Chapter 380 Agreements
Georgetown offers Chapter 380 agreements that may include property tax abatements, sales tax sharing, utility rate considerations, and fee waivers. The city focuses on technology, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and corporate office projects.
Downtown Georgetown Programs
Georgetown's historic downtown square is one of the most celebrated in Texas. The city supports downtown businesses through facade improvement programs, Main Street program resources, historic preservation tax credits for qualifying structures, and marketing support. Small businesses on the square benefit from high visitor traffic and community events.
Williamson County Resources
As the county seat, Georgetown businesses benefit from proximity to county administration and resources. Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area, Southwestern University partnerships, and county infrastructure investments support business development.
Key Industries in Georgetown
Clean Energy and Solar
Georgetown's commitment to renewable energy creates opportunities for clean energy businesses. REAP grants, clean energy tax credits, and the city's municipal utility support can benefit energy-related businesses.
Healthcare
St. David's Georgetown Hospital and growing medical offices serve the expanding population. Healthcare businesses can access workforce training grants, HRSA programs, and SBA lending for practice expansion and equipment.
Tourism and Retail
Georgetown's historic square, Innerspace Cavern, and Blue Hole Park drive tourism. Retail and hospitality businesses can access SBA Microloans, WOTC hiring credits, and downtown improvement programs.
State Programs for Georgetown 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
Georgetown 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 →