🚨 Opportunity Zone Program Gets a Rural Boost Before 2026 Expiration 🌄
Big changes are coming to the Opportunity Zone program — and rural areas are getting a major upgrade:
- 🏘️ One-third of zones now classified as “rural” — unlocking new perks from recent federal legislation.
- 💸 Investment threshold lowered: Investors only need to improve properties by 50% (down from 100%).
- 🕒 30-month window to make improvements.
- 📈 New benefits include a 30% step-up for investments in Qualified Rural Opportunity Funds.
- 🏗️ Rural zones may attract data center development due to available space.
- 🗓️ New program launches Jan 1, 2027 — governors must nominate zones by July 1.
- 📉 Fewer zones expected: ~6,500 vs. 8,764 in the original program.
- 🔍 More transparency and reporting required in the revamped version.
💬 What do you think about the rural shift and new incentives? Could this reshape investment strategies? Let’s discuss! 👇
Source: Opportunity Zone program changes: Rural areas get new perks – Boston Business Journal
