Appalachian Regional Commission
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is an economic development partnership entity of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia.
A Region of Great Opportunity
ARC invests in Appalachia’s economic future by providing grants, publishing research, and sponsoring learning experiences — all to help Appalachia’s communities seize their opportunities, address economic disparity and advance prosperity.
Appalachian Places
Join us October 6-7 in Frostburg, Maryland to hear how Appalachians are growing asset-based economies! Programming will focus on how to identify and plan around local assets.
Research and Resources
Appalachia Envisioned
ARC’s strategic plan, Appalachia Envisioned: A New Era of Opportunity, guides ARC’s work to innovate, partner, and invest in the Appalachian Region through 2026. Learn more about our investment goals, our guiding principles, our roles 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.