About the Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation (PAEDC)
In 1989, Port Arthur became one of the first cities in Texas to implement a ½ cent sales tax dedicated to supporting economic development. The Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation (PAEDC) manages these funds and is governed by a seven-member Board of Directors.
As a Type A economic development corporation, PAEDC focuses on projects that create primary jobs and drive industrial growth. This includes funding for infrastructure improvements, manufacturing facilities, business expansion, and workforce development. Type A corporations are specifically designed to support industries that strengthen the local economy, ensuring long-term job creation and sustainable development in Port Arthur.
Customized Incentives Built on Performance
PAEDC tailors each incentive package to support businesses relocating to or expanding in Port Arthur. All incentives are performance-based, meaning reimbursements are provided only after businesses meet the compliance obligations outlined in their performance agreement. This ensures the responsible use of public funds while driving meaningful business growth and economic development.
IMPACT Incentive Program
The IMPACT Incentive drives business growth and economic development by providing financial incentives for qualifying projects in Port Arthur. To qualify, businesses must make a significant investment in three critical areas: Capital Expenditure, Infrastructure Improvements, and Job Creation of Port Arthur residents.
This program offers up to 20% reimbursement for facility expansions, equipment upgrades, and other capital investments. Infrastructure enhancements, such as roads, utilities, and site preparation, may qualify for up to 40% reimbursement of related costs. Additionally, companies creating new full-time jobs for Port Arthur residents can receive $1,000 to $5,000 per job, based on wage levels and overall economic impact. Businesses expanding into designated properties may also be eligible for reduced land costs.
Specialized Incentives for Small Business Growth
For smaller companies looking to relocate to or expand in Port Arthur, we offer specialized incentive programs with less stringent requirements than our flagship IMPACT Incentive Program. These tailored programs are designed to support business growth by providing financial assistance for capital investments, infrastructure improvements, and job creation. Whether you’re expanding an existing operation or establishing a new presence in Port Arthur, our incentives can help bridge financial gaps and make your transition smoother.
Bedrock Incentive Program
The Bedrock Incentive is designed to support critical infrastructure improvements that lay the foundation for long-term economic growth in Port Arthur. This program provides up to 40% reimbursement for eligible infrastructure costs, such as roads, utilities, site preparation, and transportation access, with a minimum investment of $100,000 required. By incentivizing businesses to invest in essential infrastructure, the program strengthens the city’s economic competitiveness and enhances business expansion opportunities.
Career Creation Incentive
The Career Creation Incentive is designed to support businesses that are expanding their workforce and creating new, full-time jobs in Port Arthur. This program offers financial rewards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per job, based on the position’s skill level, salary, and industry. To qualify, businesses must commit to hiring at least seven full-time employees within 12 months, with wages meeting or exceeding regional industry standards. Jobs must be maintained for a minimum of three years, ensuring long-term employment opportunities for Port Arthur residents.
Investment Edge Incentive
The Investment Edge Incentive supports business growth by reimbursing a portion of eligible capital expenditures for facility expansions, equipment upgrades, and infrastructure improvements. Businesses that invest a minimum of $500,000 in capital projects may qualify for up to 20% reimbursement, based on the total investment and economic impact. This program is designed to reduce financial barriers for businesses expanding in Port Arthur while strengthening the city’s industrial base.
