East Chicago Urban Enterprise Association Inc.

The East Chicago Urban Enterprise Association Inc. is a non-profit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity under the laws of the State of Indiana. It was established to take advantage of the Enterprise Zone designation granted to the City of East Chicago in 1988 by the State of Indiana. This designation provided various incentives, including tax credits, to stimulate reinvestment and job creation in the economically distressed area.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the East Chicago Urban Enterprise Association is to support residents and businesses within the City of East Chicago through partnerships and incentives. The organization envisions a vibrant and economically prosperous community with economic growth aligned with environmental sustainability and community safety.

History

Indiana introduced the Enterprise Zone program in 1983 as a tool to attract businesses and investment by offering tax benefits and other incentives. East Chicago received this designation in 1988, leading to the creation of the East Chicago Urban Enterprise Association to manage and leverage these benefits. Although the East Chicago Enterprise Zone officially expired on December 31, 2019, ECUEA continues to work towards its original objectives, including promoting economic growth and development in the area.

Objectives

ECUEA focuses on several key objectives:

• Economic Growth: Encouraging business and residential investment to improve long-term economic development in the area.
• Partnerships: Developing new partnerships and enhancing existing ones to support local economic decision-making.
• Community Development: Enhancing the skill level of the local workforce and improving community development through strategic investments.

Activities

The association provides various programs aimed at maximizing tax benefits for both residents and businesses. It plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth by providing support through partnerships and incentives.

Expired Enterprise Zone Status

Despite the expiration of the Enterprise Zone designation, ECUEA remains committed to its mission and continues working towards economic development and community enhancement in East Chicago.

[1] https://eastchicagouea.org/contact-us/ [2] https://eastchicagouea.org/about-ecuea/ [3] https://eastchicagouea.org [4] https://www.ecuea.com [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/35-1774688