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.
Upcoming Events
Call for Proposals Open
Join us in Starkville, Mississippi on June 2-4, 2026 for our annual conference! We are now seeking proposals from the region’s economic and community development leaders who are interested in sharing their ideas and showcasing their work during our conference. Proposals are due on Friday, February 27, 2026.
ARC Regional Workshops
ARC Regional Workshops help both grant applicants and awardees develop a deeper understanding of the full grant lifecycle. Join us in Cartersville, Georgia on March 24 or Ithaca, New York on March 26 to learn about our funding opportunities and more.
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.
Available Opportunities
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.