The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development is upgrading its Opportunity Zone Information Exchange platform with GIS Planning’s industry-leading ZoomProspector online software. The new Opportunity Zone platform provides more robust searching and mapping functions to attract investors in these key incentive zones. The mobile-friendly and intuitive platform makes research and analysis easier than ever, and engages users interested in real estate and business opportunities in the State of Maryland.
The new interactive search tool is linked directly from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development website, to ensure visitors can easily access and act on timely investment opportunities within the state’s designated Opportunity Zones. The Department will be able to devote more time to enhancing these opportunities and connecting with investors, with less time now required to maintain the data and the software.
“Since the creation of the federal Opportunity Zones program, the State of Maryland has worked diligently to promote targeted investment that supports thoughtful community redevelopment, spurs positive economic growth, creates jobs, and responds to unique local needs,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Kenneth C. Holt. “The Maryland Opportunity Zone Information Exchange was among the first online resources in the nation of its kind, and these new upgrades will improve the Exchange, helping to connect investors and community stakeholders with information about projects, businesses, and other activity in Maryland’s 149 designated Opportunity Zones.”
The new dedicated Opportunity Zone site is the very first one launched with GIS Planning’s ZoomProspector software, and it is the first to combine both real estate and business investment listings (see this listing, for example). Potential investors can do detailed analysis of demographics, consumer spending, workforce, business and industry data around any listing, as well as add map layers for important variables such as transportation or broadband access. The Share button allows for easy sharing on social media, in email, as PDF or with a custom URL that will direct users back to the listing or report. Website users will also appreciate the 360° virtual tour, Google Street View and 3D rotation provided to view each property or business. Custom Tours, such as interactive interiors, 3D architectural renderings, drone video and more can easily be added.
“Potential investors are researching locations online, often well before contacting local officials,” explains Pablo Monzon, cofounder and co-managing director of GIS Planning Inc. “You need to provide this critical data online when they get there or risk losing potential investment. With these data tools, the State of Maryland is open for business 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”
“GIS Planning is proud to launch the very first ZoomOpportunity site with the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. The innovative use of online technology will help direct investors to these key incentive zones with the state to support businesses and new developments, as well as create jobs and stimulate the regional economy.”
Over $300,000,000 of opportunity zone equity investments have been made throughout Maryland, supporting a total investment of over $3,000,000,000 into businesses and projects within Maryland’s opportunity zones.
To learn more about business expansion or relocation opportunities in Maryland, contact:
Frank Dickson
Director, Strategic Business Initiatives
Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development
frank.dickson1@maryland.gov
Phone: 301-789-4002
