Every year, ARC investments support hundreds of economic development projects across the Appalachian Region. Projects align with one of five goals outlined in our strategic plan, which was developed alongside our state partners and based on input from nearly 2,000 Appalachians. The resulting investments ultimately help strengthen Appalachia’s economy.
Building Appalachian Businesses
Building Appalachia’s Workforce Ecosystem
Expanding and strengthening training, education, healthcare, housing and childcare helps Appalachians obtain a job, stay on the job and advance their careers.
Building Appalachia’s Infrastructure
Investing in Appalachia’s infrastructure helps attract new business, create jobs and expand economic opportunities throughout the region.
Building Regional Culture and Tourism
Investing in Appalachia’s tourism industry, cultural heritage, and natural assets strengthens Appalachia’s economic potential.
Building Community Leaders and Capacity
Helping local leaders, organizations and communities obtain the resources and skills needed to address local challenges strengthens Appalachia’s economy.
Rooted in Community Conversations
ARC released its five-year strategic plan, Appalachia Envisioned: A New Era of Opportunity, in October 2021. Through six community conversations, 16 focus groups and more than 1,200 public survey responses, community members affirmed the five core investment priorities ARC established in 2015. Those focus areas will continue through 2026.
Additionally, Appalachian communities want ARC to dig deeper into how we’re investing in economic development efforts — particularly projects that promote resilience, innovation, sustainability and equity in Appalachia.
Community feedback also guided ARC to focus on job creation through home-grown entrepreneurial ideas and existing industries, expand our workforce investments to include more employee supports, increase access to infrastructure and broadband, and help communities better build off regional culture and strengthen their capacity to develop and execute economic visions.
Investments in Action
