The La Porte Urban Enterprise Association (LPUEA) is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization which serves as the governing body of the La Porte Urban Enterprise Zone. The Association acts as a liaison among Zone residents, businesses and the City of La Porte for any development activity and programs that affect the Zone and its residents.

Board Of Directors

UEA Boundary Map

Zone Programs and Incentives

The LPUEA offers three categories of incentives:

1. To Zone businesses to encourage investment and reinvestment in their businesses.
2. To individual residents residing and working in the Zone.
3. To lenders to encourage lending to Zone entities.

Investment Deduction

Zone businesses can receive a tax deduction for the increased value of a business property due to a real and personal property investment by the business. The added valuation may be deducted for up to 10 years. Examples of “qualified investments” include: purchase or construction of new or existing building, purchase of new manufacturing or production equipment, costs associated with repair or modernization of an existing building, or onsite infrastructure improvements.

Business Grant Program

Zone businesses are eligible for a matching grant program offered throughout a given calendar year. Grants are given up to 50% of the total project cost or $10,000 and can be applied to most exterior improvements. This grant is a reimbursement grant and funded at project completion. Note–Roofs are not considered in this program. Applications must be received by the 3rd of the month to be considered at that months Board Meeting.

Community Enhancement Grant Program

Organizations are awarded grants each year for activities and events that are executed within the Urban Enterprise Zone. Grant amounts are considered based upon event participation in amounts up to $500 per event and per year. The purpose of the Community Enhancement Grant is to create activity and engagement within the community inside the LPUEA zone.

Residential Grant Program

The City of La Porte Urban Enterprise Association desires to financially assist La Porte Urban Enterprise Zone residents in the rehabilitation of their residential property. Funds are available in the form of a grant to all qualifying applicants. The LPUEA will reimburse 50% of the eligible costs not to exceed $10,000.00, with a minimum project cost of $1,500.00.