Success Story
Enterprise Zone Certification Unlocks Major Savings for Expanding Retailer

CHALLENGE

As the company accelerated its footprint, leadership quickly recognized that the state’s statutory incentives and enterprise zone programs could have a meaningful impact on the economics of their expansion. However, with a lean internal team and the demands of rapid growth, they lacked both the bandwidth and the specialized knowledge to navigate these opportunities.

The challenge was twofold:

Awareness & Expertise

The client was largely unaware of the scope of available statutory and discretionary incentives, particularly how enterprise zones could provide tax savings and cost offsets on capital-intensive projects.

Capacity & Compliance Risk

Even once aware of the opportunities, the client had no internal resources dedicated to applying for enterprise zone certifications, coordinating with local authorities, or managing the compliance requirements tied to these incentives. Without action, they risked missing deadlines, leaving money on the table, and increasing administrative strain on their team during a critical growth period.

SOLUTION

DMA partnered with the client to provide a full-service, strategic solution that removed the burden from the client’s team and ensured opportunities weren’t overlooked or lost.

• Fast-Tracked Certification: Within just two weeks of initial discussions and receipt of client data, DMA prepared and submitted the necessary documentation to secure enterprise zone certification for the projects.
• End-to-End Management: DMA handled every stage of the process, from coordinating with local enterprise zone administrators to completing the applications, securing certifications, and ensuring the client and its subcontractors were positioned for compliance.
• Quantified Savings: This collective effort resulted in over $860,000 in realized savings in the same calendar year, creating immediate bottom-line impact while also offsetting the costs of the expansion.
• Strategic Value Beyond Compliance: With DMA taking ownership of the process and ensuring compliance with all statutory requirements, the client’s internal team remained focused on operations and growth rather than endless incentive paperwork.

RESULT

The results went beyond a one-time financial win. By delivering measurable value quickly and demonstrating a client-centered approach, DMA became a long-term partner for the company’s expansion strategy.

• Immediate Financial Impact: The initial certification delivered nearly $900K in savings, proving the value of incentive optimization.
• Expanded Engagement: Based on this success, the client partnered with DMA to manage enterprise zone work for seven additional sites, each averaging ~$175K in fees.
• Broader Relationship: The demonstrated expertise and speed created trust, leading to additional conversations around incentives outside of the state and the potential for a multi-state engagement strategy.
• Reduced Risk & Burden: By outsourcing the complex and time-sensitive incentive application and compliance process, the client eliminated internal administrative strain and gained confidence in their compliance posture.

What began as a single project evolved into an ongoing strategic partnership, with DMA now incorporated into the client’s growth plans.

WHY DMA?

By being client-centered and acting quickly, DMA delivered results within two weeks of engagement once the necessary data was provided. Where competitors would have required multiple teams and extended timelines, DMA streamlined the process and minimized disruption to the client’s expansion plans. By taking on the compliance responsibilities that many competitors leave to clients, DMA demonstrated a level of service and efficiency that built trust. As a result, the client now relies on DMA as a partner for current and future incentive opportunities.