This report is the third 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 of 73 total projects, key findings for the evaluation’s third year include:

• ARISE grantees are demonstrating measurable progress toward initiative goals. As of August 2026, projects collectively served nearly 31,000 people, more than 3,600 businesses and organizations, and 835 communities, and grantees reported improving a sizeable portion of those served. Grantees reported more than 570 jobs created and more than 1,440 retained, more than 150 plans or reports produced, and 135 new programs implemented. Collectively, the 23 closed projects met or exceeded targets in nearly every reported category. In the one category below 100%, the grantee has additional time post-close to see results.
• Three emerging project models show the various ways multistate designs can have an impact. Some projects address a shared region, system, corridor, or asset that crosses state boundaries. Others extend or adapt an existing model into new locations. A third group coordinates across organizations or places to increase reach or scale. Across these models, grantees and partners frequently described shared learning, broader access to expertise and resources, and stronger regional relationships.
• ARISE grantees and partners continue to report more strengths than challenges in project implementation. Top strengths include adaptability, common Vision, and partner commitment and engagement.
• ARISE is building momentum toward its goal of fostering regional economic transformation through multi-state collaboration. Year Three findings suggest that ARISE is producing tangible project-level results while also supporting forms of regional collaboration that may have value beyond individual awards.

Read the full report below and access all ARISE reports here.