Lake county, ohio | port authority
Accelerating the Economic Growth of Lake County
As an Ohio Port Authority, LDA helps drive economic development in Lake County through financing tools, strategic partnerships, and project support that advance job creation and community revitalization.
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OUR FOCUS
Flexible Financing for Local Projects
We help finance projects in a variety of ways to accelerate job creation and community revitalization. This includes issuance of taxable and tax-exempt bonds, sales tax exemption savings through a capital lease structure, access to capital markets, and other financing sources at the state and local levels.
Our streamlined process means less paperwork and faster access to the capital your project needs
Because we are a Port Authority, we provide access to financing tools that private lenders simply cannot offer at significantly lower cost and with more flexible structures tailored to your project’s needs.
LDA advantages
Built for a Range of Projects
LDA supports private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and public entities with financing tools designed to move projects forward in Lake County.
Tax-Exempt Structure
As a Port Authority, LDA delivers financing and development services at a lower cost than private institutions savings that go directly to your project.
Bond Issuance Authority
LDA can issue taxable and tax-exempt bonds on behalf of businesses and non-profits undertaking capital projects in Lake County.
Cost of Living Advantage
The Cleveland Plus region offers a cost of living 10% below the national average making Lake County an attractive destination for businesses and employees alike.
No Corporate Income Tax
Ohio businesses pay zero corporate income tax, zero inventory tax, and zero machinery & equipment tax, a competitive edge over most US states.
Airport Access
LDA co-sponsors the Lake County Executive Airport, providing convenient general aviation access for businesses and private pilots in the region.
Workforce Development
LDA is an active member of the Lake County Workforce Development Board and partners with OhioMeansJobs Lake County to connect businesses with skilled talent.
HOW WE FINANCE GROWTH
Financing Capital Investments
LDA promotes economic development by assisting capital investments made in Lake County, helping finance projects that accelerate job creation and community revitalization. Because LDA is tax-exempt, we deliver financing at a lower cost than private institutions.
Bond Financing
Taxable and tax-exempt bond issuance for businesses and non-profits. Tax-exempt bonds provide below-market rates for significant project savings.
Loan Programs
State and local loan programs supporting business expansion, new construction, and community revitalization throughout Lake County.
Sales Tax Exemption
Sales tax exemption via capital lease structure — reducing upfront costs on equipment, machinery, and materials for qualifying projects.
Foreign Trade Zone
A U.S. FTZ is legally outside Customs territory. Deferred/eliminated duties, reduced fees, weekly entry filing, no import quotas. LDA connects you with Zone administrators.
PACE Financing
Low-cost, fixed-rate financing for energy efficiency upgrades paid via property tax assessments. No upfront cost, transfers with the property. LDA assists through the entire process.
State & Local Capital Programs
LDA connects projects with Ohio state capital programs, grants, and incentive programs that reduce the cost of investment in Lake County.
SPACES & SITES
Real Estate Opportunities
LDA collects and maintains comprehensive information on available sites and buildings alongside demographic and economic data — to help businesses make informed location decisions.
Available Properties
Regularly updated database of available sites and buildings in Lake County searchable by size, type, and location.
Demographic Data
Comprehensive demographic and economic data population, workforce, income levels to support informed investment decisions.
Foreign Trade Zone
Site identification within the Lake County FTZ for businesses that can benefit from Customs territory exemptions and duty deferrals.
Brownfield Remediation Program
LDA manages Lake County's allocation of the State of Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program (BRP) providing funding and technical assistance for previously developed commercial or industrial properties affected by environmental contamination.
- Phase I — Environmental history analysis
- Phase II — Soil & groundwater sampling
- Funding and/or technical assistance available
- LDA manages Ohio BRP allocation for Lake County
Ready to Grow in Lake County?
Whether you're expanding your business, seeking tax-exempt financing, or looking for strategic connections, LDA is your single point of contact. Let’s turn your vision into economic opportunity.