Appalachian Regional Commission
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is an economic development partnership agency 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 the Region’s communities seize their opportunities, address economic disparity and advance prosperity.
Appalachia Envisioned
ARC’s new strategic plan, Appalachia Envisioned: A New Era of Opportunity, will guide ARC’s work to innovate, partner, and invest in the Appalachian Region through 2026. Learn more about our updated investment goals, our guiding principles, our roles, and more.
Research and Resources
Helping Nonprofits Navigate COVID-19
ARC’s Appalachia Nonprofit Resource Center is now offering expertly curated resources on financial management, sustainable operations, fundraising, and other tools free of charge. The resource directory is primarily responsive to the specific needs of Appalachian nonprofits during the COVID crisis and will be continually updated throughout 2021.
300,000+ Data Points on Appalachia
The Appalachian Region: A Data Overview from the 2015-2019 American Community Survey, also known as “The Chartbook,” draws from the most recent American Community Survey and comparable Census Population Estimates. The report contains over 300,000 data points about Appalachia’s demographics, income, and employment, as well as education, computer access, housing, and more—all presented at regional, subregional, state, and county levels.
Available Opportunities
Area Development Program
ARC’s INSPIRE Initiative
ARC’s POWER Initiative
J-1 Visa Waiver Program
ARC is committed to helping residents of Appalachia have access to 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.
In The Region
This Week
As we look ahead in 2022, what is the current landscape of opportunities, challenges, and needs in Appalachia? After months of gathering insights and input from thousands of Appalachians, our new strategic plan outlines clear takeaways from community members.
COVID-19 in Appalachia
As COVID-19 continues to impact the nation, ARC is carefully monitoring its effects in Appalachia. ARC’s goal during this crisis is to be a resource hub for the Region. Explore our maps, data, and webinars collected from the federal government, the 13 Appalachian state governments, and our partners.