Programs & Grants
Regional Institution Strategic Enterprise (RISE) Zone Program
Place-based economic development, powered by Maryland’s anchor institutions.
Photo Credit: Tom Holdsworth Photography
RISE Zone Program
The RISE Zone program connects the resources of universities, colleges, and federally affiliated nonprofits to surrounding communities — creating targeted zones where state incentives, business support, and institutional investment converge to attract businesses and create jobs. MEDCO administers the program effective July 1, 2026, with applications accepted on a rolling basis through MEDCO’s online portal.
Eligibility:
Stage 1: Qualified Institution Designation
- Open to higher education institutions, regional higher education centers, and federally affiliated nonprofits.
- MEDCO decides within 60 days of submission.
Stage 2: RISE Zone Designation
- A Qualified Institution must apply jointly with a county, municipality, or local economic development agency
- Zone can cover up to 500 acres
- MEDCO decides within 60 days of a completed submission
Business Eligibility for Benefits
- Businesses must be in eligible technology sectors
- Businesses must locate within a designated RISE Zone
Benefits for Qualifying Businesses
- Enhanced Biotechnology Investor Tax Credit
- State business filing fee waivers
- Priority consideration for Build Our Future grants
- Dedicated business concierge services
Zone Terms & Caps
- Zones run for an initial 10-year term, renewable for another 10 years
- Each county may host up to 3 zones (4 in Baltimore City)
- One additional “extraordinary zone” allowed statewide, specifically for quantum computing
Jurisdiction | Qualified Institution | Acres | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|
Baltimore County | Towson University | 419 | June 12, 2028 |
Montgomery County | Montgomery College | 28 | September 27, 2028 |
Prince George’s County | University of Maryland, College Park | 470.54 | August 27, 2027 |
Turn Institutional Strength Into Community Growth
RISE Zones help Maryland anchor institutions drive business attraction, job creation, and community revitalization. Start the application or connect with MEDCO to learn how a zone could support your community. To submit applications and supporting documents, contact us at RISEZone@medco-corp.com. The RISE Zone program and associated tax benefits are authorized through January 1, 2030. Businesses in a zone at program termination may continue receiving authorized benefits through their zone’s designation expiration.
