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PA FAQs

How can I apply for funding?
Apply for Department program funding through the Single Application for Assistance unless otherwise noted under “Any Special Application Procedures.” Some programs require addenda or supplements to accompany the application, so be sure to double-check the guidelines for any of these requirements. You can apply easily online at newPA.com. Call 866.GO.NEWPA (866.466.3972) for assistance.
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What are the basic benefits of operating a business in a KOZ?
Businesses making purchases of items subject to Sales and Use Tax - other than motor vehicles and certain real property - will be exempt from state and local Sales and Use Tax on specific materials utilized in a zone or expansion zone. Businesses will also enjoy tax reductions, exemptions, abatements, or credits in corporate taxes, franchise taxes, financial institution taxes, income taxes, and real estate taxes.
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Who can I contact about starting a business in Pennsylvania?
The Center for Entrepreneurial Assistance (CEA) is the lead agency in Pennsylvania government for small business development. The mission of the CEA is to enhance the entrepreneurial vitality of the Commonwealth and build an environment that encourages the creation, expansion and retention of successful small businesses. The CEA business consultants are available to assist with state related and general business questions, including inquiries about business registration and licensing requirements. The CEA focuses on small business start-ups and emerging businesses. For more information, please contact us using the information below.
Center for Entrepreneurial Assistance
PA Department of Community and Economic Development
400 North Street, 4th Floor
Commonwealth Keystone Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120-0225
800-280-3801 or 866-GO-NEWPA (866-466-3972)
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What are Keystone Innovation Zones?
Keystone Innovation Zones (KIZs) are designated zones that may be established in communities that host institutions of higher education – colleges, universities, and associate degree technical schools. These zones are designed to foster innovation and create entrepreneurial opportunities. They do this by gathering and aligning the combined resources of educational institutions, private businesses, business support organizations, commercial lending institutions, venture capital networks (including angel investors), and foundations (KIZ partners) In other words, where a partnership of these organizations is formed, a KIZ is possible.
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What are the requirements for the installation of used manufactured homes?
Used manufactured home installation is not specifically addressed in state law. Installing a used home consistent with the manufacturers approved installation instructions, is generally acceptable to the local code official. If those instructions are not available, a generic suggestive installation standard is available upon request at housingstandards@state.pa.us  
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Where can I find information and data necessary to evaluate potential locations for a new facility in Pennsylvania?
The Governor’s Action Team (GAT) awaits your call. You’ll find seasoned economic development professionals who report directly to the Governor and the Secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development, and are regionally located throughout the state to help your company with major expansions or relocating to Pennsylvania. They can be a one-stop shop for financial and technical assistance for your expansion or move to Pennsylvania. The GAT works with domestic and international businesses, as well as professional site consultants, on projects involving significant investment and job creation opportunities. Confidentiality is of utmost priority. Visit newPA.com or call 1888-483-2672. 
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What is Elm Street?
Elm Street is a component of the New Communities Program. Its goal is the revitalization of residential corridors that approach the downtown commercial districts. The reasoning behind the program is that our restored downtown commercial areas will be far more attractive to visitors and customers if the neighborhoods adjacent to them are just as appealing. Elm Street follows a five-point approach, similar to the Main Street four-point approach.
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Do I have to pay taxes in Pennsylvania, even if I do not make any profit the first year or the first few years in which I do business in the state?
As a general rule, firms are not required to pay income taxes (and are not assessed any by the state) in years in which they do not generate any profits. Pennsylvania does, however, have a “Capital Stock Tax” that is assessed against the ownership interests of both Corporations and LLC’s. The amount of Capitol Stock Tax that is charged is determined by examining valuie of the enterprise based on a fixed formula, which primarily examines an enterprise’s net income and net worth. As a result, the amount of the Capital Stock Tax that is ultimately assessed against your firm could be very low, if there is now profit. In recent years, Pennsylvania has been steadily lowering the rate of the Capital Stock Tax, which will be entirely phased out by the year 2011.
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What is Business in Our Sites?
Business in Our Sites is a $300 million statewide loan and grant pool, created by the issuance of bonds. This money will be made available to communities statewide to help them develop shovel-ready sites to accommodate expanding businesses, thus building the local and regional economy and ultimately creating jobs.
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Why does Pennsylvania need a real estate development fund?
Real estate represents one of the Commonwealth's most important and valuable assets. It is a crucial platform for building Pennsylvania's economy and improving the lives of its citizens and the growth potential of its communities. Yet far too many projects never get completed. They line up two-thirds of the financing they need from traditional sources, only to hit a wall finding the final third. All too often such gaps in financing mean the difference between a successful community enhancement and an unused or abandoned site. With Building PA in place, we can use Commonwealth resources to close that funding gap, ensuring that Pennsylvania grows and competes successfully for new businesses, new housing and new jobs.
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What is the purpose of an Enterprise Zone?
An Enterprise Zone (EZ) is an area that has been designated by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) as financially distressed and disadvantaged. Typically, a zone is comprised of several municipalities. The purpose of an Enterprise Zone is to promote job growth and to help municipalities take advantage of business expansion opportunities when they arise. EZ's improve the capacity of local governments and business communities by encouraging them to form public/private partnerships. In turn, these partnerships boost business investment within the zone. Increased business investment, job creation and sustained community self-sufficiency are the primary goals of the Enterprise Zone program.
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What communities will benefit from the Business in Our Sites fund?
The Business in Our Sites Fund, a $300 million statewide loan and grant pool, created by the issuance of bonds, will be available to municipalities statewide, either directly or through related redevelopment authorities, municipal authorities and economic development organizations. Emphasis will be given to communities that lack the resources necessary to invest in site preparation.
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