Recent Publications

Opportunity Zones: A Path Forward

Author: Bruce Katz, Michael Saadine, Ross Baird

Opportunity Zones have attracted over $100 billion in investments, addressing local issues like housing shortages. Moving forward, a "2.0" version is proposed to adapt to market changes like the real estate crisis and industrial growth. Effective local leadership and targeted investments are key to ensuring these zones create lasting, sustainable economic impact.

The Complex Capital Stacks of Re-Industrialization

Author: Bruce Katz, Bryan Fike, Chloe Chai

The resurgence of U.S. semiconductor manufacturing is driven by complex financial structures combining federal incentives from the CHIPS Act, state and local contributions, and private capital, supporting not only fabrication facilities but also infrastructure, workforce development, and research initiatives, exemplifying a collaborative model for revitalizing the industrial sector.

Opportunity Alabama: A Conversation with Alex Flachsbart

Author: Bruce Katz, Ross Baird

Opportunity Zones, introduced by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, are designed to attract private investment to distressed communities. In six years, Opportunity Zones have sparked $100 billion in investment, particularly in housing development. Alabama's Opportunity Alabama (OPAL) has emerged as a successful model, mobilizing local and national investments, with a focus on building a sustainable capital access ecosystem.

We Must Redefine the Devolution Revolution

Author: Bruce Katz

England's experiment with metro mayors aims to decentralize power from the highly centralized government, allowing local leaders to better address regional challenges. However, true devolution requires three key steps: granting fiscal autonomy to mayors, involving them in industrial policy design, and empowering them to compete globally. This would enable cities to drive local growth and reduce the gap between London and other regions, marking a true shift in governance.

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About the Nowak Lab

To contact the Nowak Metro Finance Lab or any of our staff, please email nowaklab@drexel.edu or lindyinstitute@drexel.edu.