Local Development Districts (LDDs) — also known as local Council of Governments, Regional Planning and Development Commissions, or Area Development Districts —  are multi-county planning organizations facilitating community-based, regionally driven,  economic development.  Guided by local leaders, elected officials, business representatives and other community stakeholders, ARC relies on LDDs to lead and  leverage local partnerships.  There are 74 LDDs in the Appalachian Region.

The Development District Association of Appalachia (DDAA) provides ongoing technical assistance, peer learning, and other support to the Region’s LDDs.