State of Iowa Financial Assistance Programs
The State of Iowa can support business growth through direct financial assistance and tax incentives. A variety of business development programs are available through the State of Iowa. For further information on the State of Iowa Financial Assistance Programs, go to: Iowa Financial Assistance Program

The City of Orange City has several designated Urban Renewal Areas or Tax Increment Financing Areas. If your business is located in one of those areas, it may be eligible for public improvement financing that uses the additional, or incremental taxes that the project will generate to help finance the cost of the project.

Also called Tax Abatement. Under some circumstances, and within certain pre-defined geographical areas, the city has the authority to abate taxes that are to be paid on improvements to property within the area.

Orange City, Iowa has a revolving loan fund available to fund new or existing projects ranging from industrial to retail ventures. The purpose of the revolving loan fund is to provide “gap” financing (funds that cannot be secured from other sources or satisfactory terms that would allow the project to materialize. To incentivize larger investment projects to occur that support OCDC development objectives. The proposed business must be within a four mile radius around the cities of Orange City and Alton. Eligible loan categories; Heavy Industrial, Light Industrial & Headquarter Offices, Commercial (both retail products and services) and Non-Profit Facilities. RLF funds will not exceed $100,000 or 25% of the project whichever is less. For a copy of the Orange City Revolving Loan fund application please contact one of our local lenders or our Community Development Director at: 712-707-4885

(Ryan’s Contact Info dynamicly pulled)

Revolving Loan Guide (PDF)

Non-Discrimination Statement (PDF)

The City of Orange City requires that all new construction and exterior remodeling of structures in Commercial Districts must be done in a manner consistent with Old World Dutch architecture. This includes architectural design, colors, materials, and signage. Orange City prides itself on its Dutch heritage and wants to ensure that our commercial districts reflect this heritage. The experience of visiting and shopping in an old world Dutch village can be greatly enhanced with proper buildings and atmosphere. The City has appointed a volunteer committee to review both proposed remodeling and new buildings to ensure that old world Dutch architecture is incorporated into the design. This committee meets with property owners and helps guide them toward the authentic Dutch “look”. The committee has guidelines it uses when advising building owners.

Once the committee and owner have agreed on a design, the committee reviews the completed project to ensure compliance with the requirements. With the committee’s recommendation, the City Council determines matching fund grants to the owner. These grants are used to help offset some of the cost of construction and remodeling.

Click here to review application guidelines and procedures.

For more information contact the city Code Enforcement Officer and Building Inspector, at 712-707-4885.

This Program is designed for retail businesses that stock new items for sale on racks, shelving or a floor display are considered eligible for this program.

Loan Parameters:

• May be a new retail business or a new owner of an existing retail business in Orange City that is either leasing new or existing space or is constructing new space.
• May be an existing retail business in Orange City that is expanding at its existing or at a new location. Only the extra square footage that is added to their existing sales space will be considered eligible.
• Must be open for the public a minimum of 40 hours per week.
• Must be a member of the Orange City Chamber of Commerce.
• Must be served by the OC Municipal Utilities (electric).
• Loan application must be submitted prior to public opening.

Retail Encouragement Loan Program Policies (PDF)

This program is open to new retail businesses that would not otherwise qualify for the Orange City Retail Encouragement Loan program. Retail business is defined as a business engaged in the selling of tangible personal property and certain taxable service businesses as approved by the Retail Development Board. Please click in the link below for further details of the program.

Retail Utility Incentive Program Policies (PDF)