This report is the first in a series of annual evaluation reports for ARC’s Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE). ARISE is a multi-state initiative that aims to drive large-scale, regional economic transformation through collaborative projects. Based on a combination of project-level inquiry with initiative-level analysis, key findings for ARISE’s…

Using more than $12 million in ARC funds for two innovative projects, Catalyst Connection is revitalizing manufacturing in Northern Appalachia.

Accelerator participants gather in Washington, D.C., in late 2023. Improving access to high-speed internet is vital for strengthening Appalachia’s economy. Fast, reliable broadband supports quality health care, education, tourism, business growth and so much more. Although Appalachians’ broadband access increased by 12 percentage points between 2017 and 2022, Appalachian…

ARC’s Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) is a funding opportunity driving large-scale, regional economic transformation through multi-state collaborative projects. Launched in 2022 using funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, ARISE is strengthening Appalachian businesses and industries, and supporting the development of new opportunities across…