Delaware Nominated 25 Tracts for Opportunity Zones
Business owners in these selected tracts may soon leverage tax incentives to attract capital and support development projects.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Regional Economics
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Governor Matt Meyer has nominated 25 census tracts across Delaware for federal Opportunity Zone designation. These areas were selected from a pool of 61 eligible sites to foster investment and economic growth.
Why it matters
The designations are intended to drive capital into specific communities where economic need and investment potential intersect. Business operators in these tracts may benefit from tax deferrals and basis increases, potentially lowering the effective cost of capital for new ventures.
The state selected 25 census tracts for designation from a pool of 61 eligible areas following 237 unique community nominations. Qualified rural investments in these zones may become eligible for a 30% basis increase.
The players
Matt Meyer
The Governor of Delaware responsible for the state's economic development strategy and nomination of Opportunity Zones.
Delaware Division of Small Business
The state agency tasked with managing business development programs, regulatory guidance, and local economic nomination processes.
U.S. Department of the Treasury
The federal agency that oversees tax code implementation and must certify the state's nominated census tracts for federal tax incentives.
The details
The Delaware Division of Small Business managed the nomination process between March 4 and May 15, 2026, evaluating potential tracts against municipal land-use and zoning plans. By aligning state nominations with existing development goals, the administration intends to concentrate resources in targeted districts. If certified by the Treasury, investors using Qualified Opportunity Funds can defer gains, with rural projects qualifying for a 30% basis increase.
Timeline
March 4, 2026: The statewide nomination process opened.
May 15, 2026: The nomination submission window closed.
January 1, 2027: Designations take effect if certified.
Market Landscape
These nominations extend the framework established by the federal Opportunity Zone provisions under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. The program follows a recurring pattern where states prioritize tracts that align with existing local zoning and municipal development plans.
Business owners should determine if their facilities sit within the 13 New Castle, 5 Kent, or 7 Sussex County tracts. Those in qualifying zones should consult with a tax professional to evaluate how federal basis increases and gain deferrals may impact long-term capital planning.
The takeaway
The state’s selection process highlights an effort to align tax-advantaged capital with localized municipal infrastructure goals. Operators should monitor the U.S. Treasury certification process for the January 1, 2027 effective date to confirm their eligibility for upcoming tax cycles.
Further reading
For more information on the state's economic development initiatives, visit the Regional Economics section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WGMD.
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Do you believe state-led Opportunity Zone tax incentives effectively boost economic growth in your community?
