Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) supports Pennsylvania’s Appalachian communities through business assistance, infrastructure, and workforce projects that build lasting economic opportunity.
This grant was recently updated
Contact your Local Development District for application timing—the previously projected July 2026 deadline is no longer listed. ARC generally covers up to 50% of project costs, with exceptions outlined in Pennsylvania’s Annual ARC State Strategy; review the expanded application checklist, including performance measures, financial studies, and construction-specific materials. If you’re planning construction, submit through your LDD and do not begin procurement, acquisition, contracting, or other project activities before DCED authorization.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates: Contact the appropriate Local Development District for application timing
Funding Amounts: ARC participation generally limited to 50% of project costs, with exceptions in Pennsylvania’s Annual ARC State Strategy
Summary: Supports lasting economic and community development in Pennsylvania’s 52 Appalachian counties through business assistance, infrastructure, workforce development, tourism, and capacity building.
Key Information: Consult the appropriate Local Development District before preparing a project summary; full applications are by invitation.
Description
Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) administers Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) funding for projects that strengthen community and economic vitality in the state’s Appalachian Region. Supported work includes business technical assistance, water and sewer improvements, expanded health care access, school readiness, workforce training, strategic planning, and infrastructure development. Pennsylvania favors projects that create or retain jobs, support business formation, and improve employment, income, and economic opportunity on a continuing rather than temporary basis.
Investments align with five ARC goals: building Appalachian businesses, strengthening the workforce ecosystem, improving infrastructure, developing regional culture and tourism, and building community leadership and capacity. Pennsylvania’s seven Local Development Districts (LDDs) help applicants develop proposals and connect projects with regional priorities.
