ARC uses Congressionally appropriated funds to invest in Appalachia’s economic and community development through grants. As part of our unique federal-state partnership, ARC’s grant application process begins at the state government level. All ARC grants align with the investment priorities outlined in our current Strategic Plan and reflect state plans and strategies.
ARC also issues specific requests for proposals for research and evaluation contracts on topics directly impacting economic development in the Appalachian Region.
How It Works
Every ARC investment meets one or more of our strategic investment priorities and yields measurable results. Learn all about applying for and managing ARC funding.
Funding Opportunities
Area Development Program
Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies
Investments Supporting Partnerships in Recovery Ecosystems Initiative
Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization Initiative
READY Grants to Grow
Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities
Appalachian Regional Energy Hub Initiative
This funding opportunity supports the development and implementation of a regional energy hub. To date, it has awarded nearly $4.7 million to three projects that will work to implement a hydrogen energy hub from natural gas feedstocks, as well as provide job training for Appalachians to work in the energy industry.
Specialized Projects
Access to Capital Projects
Local Access Road Projects
Capacity Building Opportunities
Academies and Institutes
READY Appalachia
Capacity Survey for Appalachian Organizations
As ARC plans future capacity building opportunities, we need guidance from Appalachian organizations on what’s needed most. Please take this short survey to help us identify the most pressing needs for as many Appalachian organizations as possible!
Contract Opportunities
Throughout the year, ARC issues requests for proposals seeking contractors to support research, evaluation, capacity building initiatives and more.
J-1 Visa Waiver Program
ARC is committed to helping Appalachians access quality, affordable health care. Accordingly, under certain conditions, ARC will consider recommending a waiver of the foreign residence requirement on behalf of physicians holding J-1 Visas in health professional shortage areas to address the region’s healthcare needs.
Grant Resources
Applicants and current ARC grantees can explore our resource list for application checklists, project guidelines, payment and reporting forms, and more.
ARC Grants Manual Training
Learn more about the ARC Grants Manual by watching this four-part series on project management, recordkeeping, audits, and more.