Smith County is the economic hub of East Texas, home to Tyler, Lindale, and Whitehouse. The county combines a strong local economy with access to state and federal programs that support business growth and job creation.
This guide covers the business grant programs, tax incentives, and economic development resources available to Smith County businesses at the city, county, state, and federal level.
Local Programs in Smith County
City Economic Development
Cities in Smith County operate economic development programs that may include:
- Chapter 380 Agreements: Economic development agreements tied to job creation and capital investment. Chapter 380 guide.
- Property Tax Abatements: Available for qualifying businesses making significant investments in the community. Property tax abatement guide.
- Small Business Programs: Local grants, facade improvement programs, and other incentives for small businesses in downtown or target areas.
County and Regional Resources
Smith County businesses access workforce programs through Workforce Solutions East Texas:
- Skills Development Fund: Customized training grants through partnerships with Tyler Junior College. Skills Development Fund guide.
- On-the-Job Training: Wage reimbursement for training new employees during defined training periods.
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit: Federal tax credits for hiring from targeted populations. WOTC guide.
State Programs for Smith County
- Texas Enterprise Fund: Deal-closing fund for businesses creating jobs. Enterprise Fund guide.
- Texas HUB Certification: Free state procurement preferences for qualifying businesses. HUB program guide.
- TSBCI Programs: State-backed lending programs through participating financial institutions.
- State Trade Expansion Program: Export assistance for businesses selling internationally.
Federal Programs for Smith County
- SBA Programs: SBA 7(a), 504, and microloan programs through approved lenders. SBA 7(a) guide.
- SBIR/STTR: Innovation grants for businesses conducting research and development. SBIR grants guide.
- USDA Programs: Rural portions of Smith County may be eligible for USDA rural business programs. USDA rural business grants guide.
- HUBZone: Some census tracts in Smith County may be designated HUBZones.
Key Industries in Smith County
Smith County's primary industries include healthcare, manufacturing, oil and gas services, and retail. Businesses in these sectors may be eligible for industry-specific programs including sector-based training grants, equipment incentives, and specialized tax credits.
How to Get Started
- Contact your city's EDC: Local economic development offices can explain available incentives.
- Visit your nearest SBDC: Free business counseling and program identification. Find your SBDC.
- Apply for Texas HUB: Free certification through the Comptroller.
- Contact Workforce Solutions East Texas: Training grants and hiring incentives.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Smith County businesses can access programs from their city, the county, regional workforce boards, the state, and federal agencies. Keeping track of every available program is difficult when you are running a business.
Not sure which programs may fit your business? Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs — grants, tax credits, loans, and incentives — and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →