Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) funding initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) supports projects aimed at enhancing the socio-economic well-being of communities within the Appalachian Region. This region encompasses all of West Virginia and parts of 12 other states, including a substantial portion of Pennsylvania. ARC was established by federal legislation and is funded annually by Congress. It operates through a partnership between federal and state governments, and in Pennsylvania, ARC funding is directed to projects that align with strategic goals focused on job creation, infrastructure improvements, business development, and community enhancement. Each year, ARC in Pennsylvania funds diverse projects that generate employment opportunities, upgrade essential infrastructure like water and sewer systems, and expand access to healthcare and education. The funding is primarily targeted at initiatives that lead to long-term improvements in income levels, economic development, and community vitality, rather than temporary or short-lived benefits. Prioritized project types include business start-ups, industrial site development, broadband deployment, road access construction, and local government service enhancements. Additional funding may be directed to community planning and capacity-building, destination tourism tied to local assets, and facilities for business incubation. Eligibility for funding under this program is relatively broad. It includes nonprofit organizations, not-for-profit entities, and local governments. Eligible projects may range from technical assistance services aimed at boosting business development to infrastructure upgrades and public service delivery improvements. Specific project categories include local government service consolidation, acquisition or development of multi-tenant facilities, and asset-based tourism initiatives. Projects must demonstrate strategic alignment with job creation or economic development goals to be considered favorably. Funding decisions are informed by Pennsylvania’s ARC Guidelines and must comply with the Appalachian Regional Development Act (ARDA). The state evaluates proposals based on their capacity to create or retain permanent jobs, implement strategic plans, or improve long-term economic conditions. ARC funds must be matched with other federal, state, or local contributions, but precise match amounts or ratios are not specified in the available guidance. Successful applicants can expect funding in support of one or more of Pennsylvania’s five strategic goals: business development, workforce enhancement, infrastructure access, cultural tourism, and community leadership development. The application process includes a review of project alignment with these strategic goals and involves submission through the state’s program portal. While the precise components of the application and submission timelines are not detailed, prospective applicants are encouraged to consult the ARC Guidelines and relevant webinars or development district contacts for support. Notifications and awards are handled on a rolling basis subject to funding availability, and there is an emphasis on recurring annual support. Applicants should direct inquiries to the Pennsylvania DCED through the official ARC contact channels. Supporting resources include the Pennsylvania Appalachian Development Plan, Annual Strategy Statement, and regional development district contacts, which provide additional context for developing competitive applications.