The National Opportunity Zones Academy is helping communities across the country use Opportunity Zones to grow into more socially equitable, economically prosperous, and environmentally sustainable places. With educational and technical assistance, communities can establish sustainable and equitable growth and development strategies for their Opportunity Zones that balance pent-up demand for walkability with an urgent need for attainable housing, accessible transportation, living wage jobs, open space, and other aspects of smart growth.

The Academy is the latest iteration of Smart Growth America and LOCUS’s extensive work on Opportunity Zones since the tax incentive was created in 2017. Our reports, technical assistance, and advocacy have helped guide responsible real estate, business, and development outcomes in Opportunity Zone communities across the country.

The Academy is providing tailored technical assistance to these communities to increase local Opportunity Zone capacity to achieve equitable development, attract socially responsible investment, and provide best practices through peer learning amongst participating cities and towns. Seven cities are participating in the inaugural National Opportunity Zones Academy: Boston, Chicago, Greater Miami and the Beaches, Pittsburgh, Seattle, New Orleans, and Norfolk, VA. Meet the Academy cities.

The Rockefeller Foundation and Smart Growth America (SGA) launched the National Opportunity Zones Academy in September 2019 and will provide assistance until mid-2021.