Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is one of the tools available within the East Billings Urban Renewal District to help property owners and businesses invest in their properties. TIF can assist with eligible improvements that eliminate blight, improve infrastructure, enhance safety, support redevelopment, and encourage private investment throughout the district.
TIF reinvests a portion of the new property tax revenue created by growth within the district back into the area, helping fund improvements that attract investment, eliminate blight, and support revitalization.
TIF does not create a new tax. As property values increase within the district, a portion of the new tax revenue generated by that growth is reinvested back into the area to fund eligible improvements and redevelopment projects.
TIF works by encouraging private investment alongside strategic public investment. Property owners and developers fund the majority of their projects, while TIF can assist with eligible improvements that remove barriers to redevelopment, improve infrastructure, and support long-term growth. The resulting increase in property values generates new tax revenue that can be reinvested back into the district.
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is only available for eligible projects located within the
East Billings Urban Renewal District (EBURD).
Before applying, confirm that your property is located within district boundaries.
View the EBURD Boundary Map (PDF)
Not sure if your property is within the district? Contact BIRDworks and we’ll be happy to help verify your location.
TIF improvements focus on enhancing basic needs like reliable infrastructure, clean water, safe streets, and accessible public spaces, creating a stronger foundation for community growth and well-being.
Since 2007, TIF has helped leverage millions of dollars in private investment throughout the East Billings Urban Renewal District, supporting business expansion, infrastructure improvements, housing development, and community revitalization.
Contact BIRDworks before beginning work.
Discuss project eligibility.
Submit an application.
Advisory Committee review.
City Council approval.
Complete the project.
Receive reimbursement.





No. TIF does not create a new tax or increase existing tax rates. Instead, a portion of the new property tax revenue generated by increased property values within the district is reinvested back into the area to support eligible improvement and redevelopment projects.
No. TIF funding must be approved before construction begins. Property owners are encouraged to contact BIRDworks early in the planning process to discuss eligibility and application requirements.
No. TIF funding is competitive and subject to available funds, project eligibility, and approval by the required review and governing bodies. Submission of an application does not guarantee funding.
Property owners are encouraged to apply; however, tenants and long-term leaseholders may also be eligible for certain projects with property owner authorization and documentation demonstrating a sufficient interest in the property.
Eligible improvements vary by project but may include infrastructure upgrades, landscaping, irrigation, lighting, parking improvements, demolition, environmental remediation, site preparation, workforce housing, public amenities, safety and security improvements, and other activities that support revitalization and help eliminate blight within the district.
Contact BIRDworks before beginning work. We are happy to discuss your project, explain eligibility requirements, and help determine whether TIF may be a good fit. Early conversations often save applicants time and money.
The governing document that establishes the district, identifies goals, and outlines eligible TIF activities.
The community’s long-term vision for growth, investment, infrastructure, and redevelopment within the district.
The development regulations that guide building design, site layout, landscaping, and land use within the district.
The East Billings Urban Renewal District operates under Montana’s Urban Renewal Laws. These statutes establish how urban renewal districts are created, how Tax Increment Financing (TIF) works, and what types of projects may be eligible for funding.
While BIRDworks can help guide applicants through the process, all TIF funding decisions must comply with applicable Montana law, City policy, and district plans.
Montana Urban Renewals Laws (MCA Title 7, Chapter 15, Parts 42 & 43)
Our zones include:
Rail Spur Village (RSV)
Rail Spur Village Main Street (RSVMS)
Central Works (CW)
13th Main Street (13th)
Industrial Sanctuary (IS)