Applications are due December 4 for Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy and Appalachian STEM Academy.
WASHINGTON, D.C., October 8, 2026 – Today, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) opened applications for two summer study opportunities: the Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy (AEA) and the Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge. Both programs, planned for summer 2027 and subject to available funding, are free intensive learning experiences specifically for the Appalachian Region’s high school and/or middle school students and teachers.
The Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy (AEA), developed in partnership with Appalachian State University and STEM West, prepares the next generation of regional entrepreneurial leaders and thinkers. High school students from across Appalachia will be selected to participate in a comprehensive learning curriculum designed to sharpen business and economic development acumen and develop skills essential for entrepreneurial success. The students will have the opportunity to develop and implement business ideas, refine and prototype those ideas, and deliver a pitch presentation for an audience of entrepreneurs. AEA will be held from July 17-24, 2027, at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina.
The Appalachian STEM Academy is a hands-on learning experience for Appalachia’s middle and high school students, as well as high school teachers in STEM-related fields. Hosted by Oak Ridge Associated Universities in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, this program is a gateway to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in the Appalachian Region. High school participants will work with award-winning scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and both high school and middle school students will conduct guided group science, math, computer science, and technology research projects. High school teachers will work with science practitioners to develop STEM-related curriculum. Many students gain their first exposure to applied science and STEM education through this experience. STEM Academy sessions will take place on the following dates:
- Middle School STEM Academy Session 1: July 10-16, 2027
- Middle School STEM Academy Session 2: July 17-24, 2027
- High School STEM Academy: July 10-24, 2027
Applications for both opportunities are due December 4, 2026.
“Appalachia’s students bring creativity, curiosity and optimism to our region’s challenges and opportunities,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “Through ARC’s summer learning opportunities, we hope to encourage young people to explore new ideas, build valuable workforce skills, and discover career pathways that can help shape the future of our Appalachian communities. These experiences not only empower students to reach their full potential but also strengthen the talent that will drive Appalachia’s economy forward for years to come.”
About the Appalachian Regional Commission
The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development entity of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC’s mission is to invest and partner to strengthen economic development in Appalachia to help the region reach its full economic potential.