Appalachian Regional Commission Funds
Forecasted
Appalachian Regional Commission Funds support North Carolina’s Appalachian communities through business, workforce, infrastructure, tourism, and capacity-building projects to strengthen the regional economy.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Commerce
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Pre-application deadline)
Funding Amounts: General limits: $700,000 construction and $300,000 non-construction; selected projects up to $1,000,000 or $500,000, respectively; up to 36 months
Summary: Supports economic development projects serving North Carolina’s 31 Appalachian counties through investments in businesses, workforce systems, infrastructure, tourism, and community capacity.
Key Information: A complete electronic pre-application is required before an applicant can be invited to submit a full application.
Description
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a federal-state partnership established by Congress in 1965 to strengthen Appalachia’s economy. The North Carolina Department of Commerce administers the state’s ARC program, supporting economic development activities in 31 counties. Projects must address at least one ARC investment goal: business development, workforce development, infrastructure, regional culture and tourism, or community leadership and capacity.
Supported work includes entrepreneurship and small-business growth, education and employment supports, utilities and broadband, cultural and natural assets, and technical assistance for local planning and project execution. North Carolina’s targeted priorities emphasize strengthening the workforce, supporting businesses, and empowering communities while building resilience after Hurricane Helene. Particular interests include infrastructure supporting commerce and jobs, local-government infrastructure resilience, industry-school partnerships, and rural healthcare improvements addressing substance use disorder.
