New Jobs and Development Bond Fund

New Bond Fund Launches to Accelerate Jobs and Development in Butler County

The Butler County Finance Authority has launched the Jobs & Development Bond Fund to support businesses in key sectors, enabling them to grow, expand, and hire. The fund is designed to provide long-term, fixed-rate financing to support projects that generate measurable investment and job creation in Butler County.

With loan amounts ranging from $1 million to $5 million, the Jobs & Development Bond Fund provides access to capital for qualifying businesses in manufacturing, distribution, research, industrial, and commercial sectors. Eligible projects must result in significant job creation or retention, operational efficiency, or facility expansion.

What Kinds of Projects Could Qualify

The Bond Fund is structured to meet the capital needs of businesses with complex project costs and budgets. Funds can be used for

• Purchasing land or buildings
• Machinery and equipment
• New construction or major renovation
• Leasehold improvements

The Jobs & Development Bond Fund is designed to support capital-intensive projects that directly contribute to job growth and long-term economic impact. Eligible uses of the fund include, but are not limited to, the following:

New Manufacturing Facilities

Construction or acquisition of advanced manufacturing plants that create new jobs or retain existing ones. Projects may include facilities producing automotive components, machinery, consumer goods, or precision-engineered products.

Facility Expansions

Physical expansions of existing buildings to accommodate increased production, warehousing, or research capacity. These expansions can include adding square footage, modernizing systems, or building out additional workspace.

Research and Development Centers

Investment in facilities dedicated to innovation, product testing, or prototyping. These projects are typically capital-intensive and are aligned with the creation of high-skill jobs.

Distribution and Logistics Hubs

Construction or fit-out of distribution centers, cold storage facilities, or last-mile logistics operations. These projects often support large job bases and require substantial investment in equipment and infrastructure.

Process Automation and Efficiency Upgrades

Equipment purchases or facility retrofits that allow existing employers to scale operations, improve throughput, or reduce downtime. These investments are often linked to job retention and competitiveness.

Leasehold Improvements

Tenant-led improvements to leased industrial or commercial space that significantly increase capacity or performance. Projects must involve durable upgrades such as HVAC, electrical, loading docks, or interior reconfiguration.

Site Acquisition for Strategic Growth

Purchase of land or buildings that enable long-term expansion or relocation of high-impact employers. Projects must include a clear path to job creation or major private investment.

Qualifications for Receiving Funds

To qualify, businesses must contribute at least 10% equity. A 10% bond reserve is also required. Interest rates are fixed and based on current market conditions. Collateral may include liens, mortgages, and corporate or personal guarantees.

The program includes a $30,000 documentation deposit, 2–3% closing costs, and a 0.50% annual servicing fee.

This fund adds a critical tool to Butler County’s economic development toolbox. It will support projects such as modernizing a manufacturing line, building a new distribution center, or expanding research and development capabilities. Any project that increases employment, drives private investment, or boosts operational capacity may be eligible.

Apply Today

Businesses planning to expand in Butler County should contact the Butler County Finance Authority to determine eligibility and start the application process.