The state of North Carolina has secured certification for 204 census tracts as Opportunity Zones, as announced by Governor Josh Stein. This certification from the U.S. Department of the Treasury is intended to spur economic growth within these designated areas through enhanced federal tax incentives. The process of obtaining this certification involved collaboration with local leaders and community engagement across North Carolina. The Opportunity Zones are expected to invite private investment, generate employment, support business expansion, revitalize neighborhoods, and increase housing availability. The new designations will commence on January 1, 2027.
The Opportunity Zone program is a federal initiative aimed at encouraging long-term private investments in low-income communities. During this second round of designations, states have the ability to nominate up to 25% of their eligible low-income census tracts for the Treasury’s consideration. North Carolina received a total of 340 nominations which were evaluated based on criteria such as organizational role, adherence to the state’s guiding principles, and an assessment of development potential and economic need. Greater emphasis was placed on submissions from officials with formal economic development responsibilities.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the program’s potential to attract investment and strengthen communities across the state. Meanwhile, N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted the collaborative effort between state and local partners in identifying these zones, noting the importance of these designations as a tool for attracting private investment over the next decade. The 204 nominated census tracts can be accessed through the state’s Commerce Opportunity Zone website.
Following the release of 2020-2024 American Community Survey data in January 2026, North Carolina initially nominated 202 tracts. The announcement of six additional eligible census tracts by the Treasury in September 2026 expanded the nomination cap to 204. The formal certification of these Opportunity Zones by the Treasury marks a significant step in North Carolina’s efforts to leverage federal resources for economic development.
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