Tax increment financing (TIF) is often used by state and local governments to generate funds for housing and economic development. It can stabilize communities and businesses in a particular location, or “TIF district,” by using tax revenue generated from existing property and new development for specific community needs. TIFs allow governments to divert future property tax revenue toward designated economic development projects and small business support. For example, municipalities can use TIFs to support small businesses by funding technical assistance programs, façade improvements, or commercial space revitalization without using general municipal funds or raising taxes. Over time, a TIF district can generate significant revenue that can be used to pay for affordable housing, affordable commercial spaces, and other neighborhood upgrades and supports that can keep small businesses and residents in place.