The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a federal-state partnership that works with Appalachian communities to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life. Local Development Districts, like Buckeye Hills Regional Council, work in partnership with the ARC to promote regional strategies for partnerships, progress, and prosperity.
The Appalachian Regional Commission provides funding for projects related to entrepreneurial and business development, workforce development, critical infrastructure, natural and cultural assets, and leadership and community capacity.
Established in 1965, the ARC is led by a Commission composed of the Governors from each of the Region’s 13 states, and a Federal Co-Chair who is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Each year, the governors select a States’ Co-Chair to lead the Commission in partnership with the Federal Co-Chair.
Each Appalachian Governor selects an appointee to represent their states’ interests and priorities to the Commission. These representatives, referred to as State Alternates, are liaisons between the Governors and ARC Leadership. Every state also has a State Program Manager who is the state-level contact for ARC and facilitates ARC investments with ARC staff. Alternates and State Program Managers work closely with local organizations, including Local Development Districts, to guide ARC investment decisions and policy decisions. ARC staff review proposals, manage investments, and conduct research in cooperation with the states.
To maximize investments made by the ARC in Ohio, the Governor’s Office of Appalachia (GOA) was formed in 1986 to enhance those opportunities with matching state funds for projects. Ohio is the only state in the ARC region to match the federal allocation with state funds. To learn more about the GOA, visit their website by clicking here.
ARC approves funding for more than 400 projects annually throughout the 13-state Appalachian Region.
Project funding traditionally follows the ARC’s investment priorities for Appalachia, identified below.
Eligible projects for funding include:
Projects recommended for ARC funding by Buckeye Hills must have all matching funds committed.
Applicants seeking ARC Area Development funding must complete our Pre-Application by May 31, 2024. The staff at BHRC is readily available to assist applicants. For any inquiries, concerns, or guidance regarding your pre-application, please contact Emma Yeager, Development Specialist, via email at eyeager@buckeyehills.org.
Other ARC funding opportunities are available on the Grants and Opportunities page of their website.
Need Help Planning a Project and Applying for Grants?
Our region has no shortage of good ideas. By completing our Ideas & Intake form, you are providing the information necessary to begin transforming your idea into a fundable project.
