Leverage the Power of QDES: Driving Economic Development in Illinois

Unlock the potential of QDES in Illinois for your business. Seize this transformative opportunity to foster innovation, create jobs, and boost your bottom line.

QDES (Qualified Development Entity) is a program that incentivizes investment in blighted areas by providing substantial tax credits. Businesses can capitalize on these credits to reduce their tax liability and unlock additional funding for major development projects.

QDES Tax Credit Rates	Who Qualifies
Up to 35%	Businesses investing in low-income communities
25%	Businesses investing in moderate-income communities
15%	Businesses investing in higher-income communities

QDES Investment Areas	Eligible Projects
Blighted areas	Affordable housing, commercial development, industrial development
Enterprise Zones	Retail, manufacturing, healthcare facilities
Historic Preservation Areas	Restoration and rehabilitation of historic buildings

Success Stories

Company A: A developer used QDES credits to build a $20 million mixed-use development in a blighted area. The project created 150 jobs and generated an estimated $2 million in new tax revenue.

Company B: A manufacturer expanded its operations in an Enterprise Zone using QDES credits. The expansion created 50 new jobs and increased the company's annual sales by $5 million.

Company C: A non-profit organization used QDES credits to renovate a historic building in a Preservation Area. The renovation created a community center that provides essential services to low-income residents.

Effective Strategies, Tips and Tricks

Identify eligible projects: Determine which projects qualify for QDES credits based on the investment area and project type.

Calculate potential credits: Use the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's QDES Credit Calculator to estimate the amount of credits you may be eligible for.

Apply early: Submit your QDES application well in advance of the project's start date, as applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Challenges and Limitations

Limited funding: The QDES program has a limited amount of funding available each year.

Competition: There may be competition for QDES credits, especially for projects in high-demand areas.

Complexity: The application process can be complex and time-consuming.

Mitigating Risks

Secure financing: Obtain financing for your project before submitting your QDES application to ensure that you have the necessary funds to complete the project.

Partner with an experienced advisor: Consult with a tax professional or economic development specialist to guide you through the application process and maximize your chances of success.

Monitor progress: Track the progress of your project and report any changes to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to avoid any potential issues with your QDES credits.

FAQs About QDES in Illinois

What is the maximum amount of QDES credits I can receive?

Up to 35% of the eligible project costs, capped at $500,000 per project.

How long can I carry forward unused QDES credits?

Unused QDES credits can be carried forward for up to 10 years.

Do I need to repay QDES credits if I fail to complete my project?

Yes, you may be required to repay all or a portion of the QDES credits if you fail to complete your project or comply with the terms of the agreement.

Leverage the Power of QDES: Driving Economic Development in Illinois