Start and Grow Your Business

Find out how to start a business in Tioga County...

Below is a list of some FAQs regarding starting a business in Tioga County. While the information may not address all questions, the resources and information should provide a useful basis for finding preliminary answers to common start-up questions. The information included in this document in no way intends to supersede legal requirements not stated. The County is not responsible for actions taken or not taken by business owners utilizing this document. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Small Business Development Center

Small Business Administration

Available Properties

New York State Services

Business Planning FAQs

Do I need a business plan to start my business?

We highly recommend the construction of a business plan. This plan assists you with explaining your idea/product/service to other organizations in addition to providing a great foundation for you as a business owner.

Many entities such as the Tioga County Industrial Development Agency or a traditional lender will require the submission of a business plan to receive financing or assistance.

What resources are available to help me put together a business plan?

When should I meet with a bank?

Can I talk to multiple banks?

Business Location FAQs

Where can I find commercial properties in Tioga County to lease or purchase?

What type of zoning district does my business need to be in, and how do I verify that my business type can operate there?

Business Start-up Assistance FAQs

What type of assistance is available for new businesses?

Language about contacting TEAM Tioga to help you identify potential resources and evaluate eligibility for list of some of available resources below.

Tioga County Industrial Development Agency (TCIDA)

The TCIDA offers a number of programs to assist new businesses. Information on the gap financing, façade improvement and other programs can be found here:

***Link to IDA page/available resources

Southern Tier Region Economic Development Corporation (STREDC)

STREDC also offers low-interest financing options that are eligible for use in Tioga County. Information on STREDC Programs can be found here:

***Link to STREDC programs/contact

New York State

Depending upon the project, other incentives such as grants and tax credits may also be available through the State of New York. A list of State offered programs can be found here:

***Link to ESD resources

NY State Electric and Gas (NYSEG)

NYSEG offers …. They also are able to assist with energy efficiency planning and rebates. For more information, contact ……

***Link to resources

***Link to STREDC programs/contact

New York State

What is “GAP FINANCING?”

Can I get grants to cover the costs of my start-up?

Real Property Tax Exemption FAQs

What real property tax exemptions may be available to my business?

Language about contacting TEAM Tioga to help you evaluate projects eligibility for resources below.

Section 495-b of the Real Property Tax Law

Section 485-b of the Real Property Tax Law authorizes a partial exemption from real property taxation for commercial, business or industrial property constructed, altered, installed or improved subsequent to July 1, 1976 or a later date as specified in a county’s, city’s, town’s, or village’s local law or in a school district’s resolution. The cost of such construction, alteration, installation or improvement must exceed $10,000 or a higher minimum, not to exceed $50,000, as may be provided in such local law or resolution. Ordinary maintenance and repairs do not qualify for exemption.
Generally the amount of the exemption in the first year is 50% of the increase in the assessed value attributable to the improvement. The exemption amount then decreases by 5% in each of the next nine years.
Consult your assessor to ascertain the specific schedule or schedules that apply.

*** Link to assessors???

Payment in Lieu of Tax (PILOT)

***Need Christine to provide Q & A

Business Registration FAQs

How do I register my business with Tioga County?

If you plan on conducting for-profit business through a sole proprietorship or general partnership under any name other than your own, you are required by law to file a Business Certificate (also called a Certificate of Assumed Name) in the office of the County Clerk in the county your business is located. Corporations, limited partnerships and limited liability companies must also file a Certificate of Assumed Name if they are operating under any name other than the name they were incorporated or formed under, though these organized businesses must file the form with the NYS Department of State.

***information for County Clerk