Description
The Empowerment Zone and Enterprise Community Initiative is the Federal government's most concentrated program to address severe poverty and economic distress in our nation's rural and urban communities. Its goal is to create conditions for sustainable community development by the end of the 10-year federal partnership. This program is designed to match public resources to the needs identified by the community.
How to Use This Tool
Out of over 500 applicants, some 104 urban and rural communities were selected in 1994. HUD and USDA administer the program. Selections were made by reviewing strategic plans developed by each community. Communities translated their goals into benchmarked projects.
Limitations
Communities are provided with $2.5 billion in tax incentives and $1 billion in Title XX Social Services block Grant Funds, as well as expanded use of tax-exempt state and local bonds when used for certain zone properties. Enterprise Communities are eligible for tax-exempt financing provisions.
Contacts
USDA: http://www.ezec.gov
HUD: http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/ezec
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