Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Program
Forecasted
Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Program supports Appalachian Alabama communities through business, workforce, infrastructure, and heritage projects to strengthen economic development and quality of life.
Funder: Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2027 (Annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $500,000 for construction, $350,000 for non-construction, and $50,000 for planning projects
Summary: Supports economic development and improved quality of life in Appalachian Alabama through business, workforce, infrastructure, tourism, and community-capacity projects.
Key Information: Projects must serve Appalachian counties and align with ARC and Alabama priorities; individuals and for-profit entities cannot apply.
Description
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Program, administered in Alabama by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), supports projects that create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life. Funding supports entrepreneurial and business development, education and workforce preparation, residents’ health, and critical infrastructure—particularly broadband, transportation, and water and wastewater systems.
The program also invests in Appalachia’s natural and cultural heritage assets and builds the capacity of current and next-generation leaders and organizations. Every project must address at least one of ARC’s five goals and align with state priorities. ARC reviews proposals through an economic-development lens, emphasizing measurable impact, collaboration, strategic alignment, and a plan to sustain the program or asset after grant funding ends.
