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Canoeing on the river in Unicoi, Tennessee

Building Regional Culture and Tourism

Appalachia is a region with unique downtown communities, a vibrant cultural and arts tradition, and diverse natural spaces. The preservation and promotion of these assets supports quality of life for residents and fuels economic development. ARC investments help communities revitalize historic buildings, plan around local arts and cultural heritage,…

Building Community Leaders and Capacity

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, organization, or community level to effectively plan and implement strategies, capitalize on funding opportunities, and…
Appalachian Development System Highway Corridor U.S. 23 near Norton, Virginia

Building Appalachia’s Infrastructure

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, play a critical role in Appalachia’s capacity to compete in the global economy. ARC grants in infrastructure help communities leverage additional state…
Training in an industrial facility

Building Appalachia’s Workforce Ecosystem

The foundation of 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…
Entrepreneur in a manufacturing facility

Building Appalachian Businesses

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 resources needed to help businesses and industries launch, succeed, and…

Cultivating Leadership and Community Capacity in Appalachia

Investing in the next generation of Appalachian leaders must start now. In partnership with regional educational institutions, training programs, and community organizations, ARC supports a range of leadership and skill building opportunities for all age levels. From skill development programs for middle and high schoolers, to applied research opportunities for…

Leveraging Appalachia’s Natural and Cultural Assets

Appalachia’s natural and cultural heritage assets are significant building blocks for a more prosperous future. They contribute to a sense of identity for Appalachians and provide the basis for sustainable, place-based economic development. Investments in natural and cultural assets support the outdoor recreation and tourism economies, the growth of entrepreneurial…

Growing Economic Opportunities in Appalachia

Entrepreneurship and business development are cornerstones of the Appalachian economy. Creating opportunity across a variety of existing and emerging industries and sectors helps communities increase their resilience during periods of transition. To fuel the Region’s economic expansion, ARC focuses on the entrepreneurial ecosystem by investing in, and nurturing the growth…

Expanding Critical Infrastructure in Appalachia

Infrastructure developments—such as water and wastewater systems, broadband, and transportation networks—play a critical role in Appalachia’s capacity to compete in the global economy. ARC’s infrastructure investments leverage additional resources that attract new business, create jobs, increase household income, and strengthen the Region’s economy. Investment Impact Fiscal Year 2020 $70.6M Invested…

Developing a Ready Workforce in Appalachia

A ready and productive workforce is the backbone of economic development. This includes ensuring Appalachia’s workforce is equipped with the right skills and education. ARC investments support educational opportunities and institutions, especially by connecting skill development and workforce training with local and regional business interests and opportunities. Our investments also…