Available Local Incentives

The City of Ypsilanti offers a series of incentives to businesses, residents, and investors, and we can also assist applicants in receiving incentives from county, state, and federal government agencies. Locally initiated tax exemption programs include:

Click here to see a comprehensive list of City of Ypsilanti and Ypsilanti Downtown Development Authority Grants & Incentives. 

Please contact Katie Jones, Economic Development Manager, to inquire about local incentives. 

  1. Brownfield Incentives

    Brownfield incentives, including Brownfield tax increment financing (TIF), also require approval from the City Council, but they are processed through the Washtenaw County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.

  2. Commercial Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate

    Similar to the OPRA exemption, the City of Ypsilanti can provide property tax abatement to owners of certain rehabilitated commercial facilities in designated districts by freezing its pre-rehabilitated taxable value for 1-10 years.

  3. Downtown Development Authority (DDA)

    Downtown Development Authority (DDA) provides the following resources: Façade Improvement Grants, Building Rehabilitation Program, Property Search, and Redevelopment Liquor Licenses.

  4. Grace Sweeney Solar Rebate Program

    Ypsilanti property owners can apply for rebates to help cover the cost of solar panel installation, thanks to a $73,149.50 donation from Grace Sweeney. Over $60,000 in funding remains, with a required $1,000 minimum contribution from each applicant. 

  5. Historic Preservation Tax Credits

    The Historic Preservation Tax Credits provide incentives for business owners.

  6. How To Apply For Tax Abatement

    View these easy steps for applying for a tax abatement.

  7. Industrial Facilities Act Tax Exemption

    This program is designed to replace property tax on industrial and high-technology developments, expansions, and rehabilitation efforts with an Industrial Facilities Tax (IFT).

  8. New Market Tax Credits

    The City of Ypsilanti is eligible for this incentive.

  9. Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act

    This incentive is designed to promote redevelopment of contaminated, blighted, or functionally obsolete mixed-use properties.

  10. Personal Property Tax Certificate

    PA 328 allows the City of Ypsilanti to offer a tax exemption to spur investment in the Industrial Development District, Brownfield Redevelopment District, Local Development Financing District/Smart Zone, or the Downtown Development District.

  11. Redevelopment Liquor Licenses

    Redevelopment liquor licenses are available in Ypsilanti’s two Downtown Development Authority districts. These licenses have been made available to local units, in addition to quota licenses, to encourage economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors.

  12. Youth Mini-Grant

    The City of Ypsilanti is making available $10,000 in fiscal year 2025-2026, and $10,000 in 2026-2027, to support youth-serving 501c3 organizations already serving City of Ypsilanti youth (ages 3 - 22), for programs, initiatives, and/or services that directly support the mental health of our community’s young people. Please note that amounts are based on the council's allotment to the program.