Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies

Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) is a new ARC initiative that aims to drive large-scale, regional economic transformation through multi-state collaborative projects across Appalachia. With the additional funding provided by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021 (also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law or BIL), ARC launched ARISE to strengthen Appalachian business and industry, and to grow and support the development of new opportunities across multiple states.

ARISE encourages the region’s 13 states to think beyond local and state lines and to spearhead initiatives that encourage states to work together as one, united Appalachia to advance ARC’s strategic investment priorities.

How to Apply

Multi-State Funding Now Available

Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) applicants must highlight partnerships across multiple states and provide a plan that showcases the economic impact of proposed project. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis. 

ARISE’s Impact in Appalachia

$73.5M
Available
$11.5M
Awarded
12
States Impacted

Collaboration in Action

Empowering and Preparing Middle School Students

New ARISE planning grant will empower middle school student in 3 Appalachian states to solve real-world problems in their communities.

Featured Resources

Event

ARISE Webinars

ARC has hosted two virtual workshops about our newest grant initiative – Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE)! Learn more about the RFP, successful project examples, and more by watching both webinars.

Resource

Multistate Collaboration Toolkit

This toolkit provides case studies on successful multistate initiatives and offers more detailed information on building partnerships, operating grants, overcoming challenges, and other best practices. It is ARC’s hope that this toolkit will provide information helpful to building and sustaining successful ARISE projects.