Welcome to the City of Aiken Economic Development Department

The Economic Development Department is tasked with stimulating economic growth in the City of Aiken and recruits new business and industry to the city through outreach and managing incentive programs available to entrepreneurs. Staff act as a liaison between the business community and the various city departments to provide a business-friendly environment.

By working with various boards and committees with similar interests, the Economic Development Department is focused on strengthening our local economy and expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs that will benefit residents and visitors to Aiken. The Department also provides activities to assist low and moderate-income families and neighborhoods within the city limits of Aiken and provide economic opportunities within low and moderate-income areas, including minority and women-owned small businesses.

The department manages the Community Development Block Grant (C.D.B.G.) to develop short and long-range goals and objectives, ensuring the City maintains awareness and complies with federal and state requirements as they pertain to C.D.B.G. and Title VI. Additionally, the department manages Community Resources by acting as the liaison between the public, service agencies, and other organizations to educate people about available programs and explain eligibility requirements.