The California Enterprise Zone program targets economically distressed areas throughout California offering special state and local incentives to encourage business investment and the promotion of new jobs in these areas. There are currently 42 active zones. Enacted into law in 1984, the first zones were subsequently designated in 1986 for the purpose of providing tax incentives to businesses and encouraging private sector market forces to revive the local economy. Businesses located within the zone can take advantage of various and, in some cases, federal incentives. The most lucrative incentive for many businesses owners is the hiring tax credit whereby employers may receive a dollar-for-dollar credit up to $37,000 for each qualifying employee. Designed by the California Housing and Community Development Department, Enterprise Zones are designated on a competitive bid basis for a period of 15 years. At the end of this time, cities may apply for renewal. Small businesses through large Fortune 500 companies can equally benefit from this credit, which has a wide set of criteria not restricted by income bracket, education level, or physical status. In fact, these credits can often circumvent barriers to employment.