Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative

Since 2001, over 3,000 students from 34 colleges and universities across Appalachia have participated in the Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative (ACRI), formerly known as the Appalachian Teaching Project (ATP). Administered by East Tennessee State University, ACRI is an applied research training program for Appalachian college students to support economic development initiatives for their communities.

2024 Participants

Congratulations to the 16 Appalachian colleges and universities selected for ACRI 2024! They’ll spend the fall semester developing innovative solutions to local challenges.

20 Years of ACRI

In 2021, East Tennessee State University’s Center of Excellence for Appalachian Studies and Services celebrated 20 years of coordinating ACRI.

Past ACRI Presentations