On November 15th, 2021, President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), a once-in-a-generation investment in American infrastructure intended to make the economy more sustainable, resilient, and just. Within the BIL, ARC was allocated $1 billion dollars over five years, or $200 million annually, starting in Fiscal Year 2022.
Over the last two years, ARC has used BIL funds to launch our Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) and award $48.6 million to 13 multi-state projects, invest in important local infrastructure projects, offer critical support for flood recovery in Eastern Kentucky, and much more.
$10 Million Awarded to Accelerate Green Textile Manufacturing
Through BIL funding, ARC was able to award $10 million to Industrial Commons through ARISE.
Funding will be used to construct a 40,000 square-foot upcycling textile manufacturing hub, create over 80 new jobs and retain another 530, train hundreds of students and workers about advanced manufacturing, establish a textile supply chain, and connect entrepreneurs in Appalachian North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
$10 Million Awarded to Grown Green Manufacturing
BIL funding allowed ARC to award $10 million to Catalyst Connection.
This ARISE project will help 1,000+ small to medium manufacturers expand or enter green technology and clean energy sectors in 156 counties across Appalachian Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia. Funds will be used to provide training, technical assistance, supply chain mapping, and guidance on factory upgrades, and more.
Impactful Community Investments
Hindman, KY: Overcoming Challenges and Upgrading Water Services
Buckeye Hills Regional Council: Making Community Visions a Reality in Ohio
Southwestern Commission: Creating Space for Western North Carolina Food Entrepreneurs
Western Maryland: Elevating the Outdoors
$5.5 Million Awarded for Flood Recovery in Eastern Kentucky
Using BIL funds, ARC awarded $5.5 million to continued recovery from the devastating floods that hit Eastern Kentucky in July 2022.
