Like many coal communities in Appalachia, Eastern Kentucky is tackling economic transition by diversifying its economic bases and creating new opportunities. Emerging industries such as information technology (IT), computer science and engineering have shown promise, but a shortage of IT talent was keeping the region from reaching its full potential. …| Appalachian Regional Commission
Appalachia is a region with unique downtown communities, a vibrant cultural and arts tradition, and plentiful natural spaces. The preservation and promotion of these assets fuels economic development and supports quality of life for residents. ARC investments help communities revitalize historic buildings, plan around local arts and cultural heritage, utilize outdoor spaces for recreation and […]| Appalachian Regional Commission
Economic vitality starts with investing in people, especially the education, training and community systems they need to succeed. A strong workforce not only has the soft and technical skills needed by local industry, but also has access to fundamental supports that keep workers on the job. Reliable transportation, appropriate healthcare, safe and affordable housing, quality childcare, and recovery services for substance use disorder are all required to maintain […]| Appalachian Regional Commission
Residents and businesses need access to reliable and affordable utilities and infrastructure to successfully live and work in Appalachia. Infrastructure, including safe, connected and strategic transportation systems, plays a critical role in Appalachia’s capacity to compete in the global economy. ARC grants in infrastructure help communities leverage additional state and federal resources to fund projects […]| Appalachian Regional Commission
Collaborative and inclusive economic development approaches are essential to building Appalachian businesses and industries, which in turn create opportunities for residents. ARC investments help our partners develop economic strategies that prioritize the growth of existing industries and home-grown entrepreneurial ideas that capitalize on communities’ unique assets. ARC grants also provide the tailored technical assistance, access to capital and capacity building resou...| Appalachian Regional Commission
Effective January 20, 2025, any statements outlined in Appalachia Envisioned: ARC’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan that reference “diversity, equity and inclusion” and “green energy” are no longer applicable. Throughout 2021, ARC hosted community conversations, focus groups, and a public survey to gather input and affirm an investment framework to meet Appalachia’s economic needs. Approximately 2,000 participants shared […]| Appalachian Regional Commission
The achievement of economic development goals in Appalachia is dependent upon local ability to prioritize challenges and implement impactful solutions. Many areas, especially those designated as rural and economically distressed, lack capacity at the individual, organizational or community level to effectively plan and implement strategies, capitalize on funding opportunities and steer investments toward successful outcomes. […]| Appalachian Regional Commission
The Appalachian Region includes 423 counties across 13 states. As part of ARC’s unique structure, every investment is made in partnership with state leadership. This enables flexible community- and state-driven project development as well as opportunities to advance regional initiatives and model practices. Learn more about the ARC program in each state, including contact information, […]| Appalachian Regional Commission
Appalachia is made up of 423 counties across 13 states and spans 206,000 square miles, from southern New York to northern Mississippi. The Region’s 26.3 million residents live in parts of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, and all of West Virginia.| Appalachian Regional Commission