WASHINGTON — To drive large-scale, regional economic transformation through collaboration, the Appalachian Regional Commission is seeking applicants for its Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE).
“Collaboration is an integral part of creating a robust economic future for the entire Appalachian region,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “By encouraging our states to work together as one, united Appalachia, ARC’s ARISE Initiative supports projects that are designed to result in transformative outcomes for both the Appalachian states and strengthening of the entire region.”
The projects must involve at least two Appalachian states and support regional business and industry, as well as develop opportunities across multiple economic sectors, the organization said in a news release.
To date, ARISE investments are projected to have created or retained more than 22,300 jobs and prepared nearly 16,000 workers and students for new opportunities in broadband development, workforce education and manufacturing across the region’s 13 states.
“To unleash Appalachia’s economic potential, we need to move in partnership across town borders and state lines,” said Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, 2025 ARC States’ co-chair. “Investment drives transformation. And by taking a regional view of economic development, we will continue to spur growth throughout the region and help create new pathways to opportunity for all.”
Key dates for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 ARISE application process:
- Sept. 25 (10 a.m. CT) – Application process webinar
- Oct. 28 (10 a.m. CT) – Multi-state project development webinar
- Dec. 5 (4 p.m. CT) – Pre-applications due
- May 15, 2026 (4 p.m. CT) – If invited, full grant applications due
- Summer 2026 – Awards announced
Since ARISE was established in 2022, ARC has invested $179.5 million in 68 projects to support the development of new economic opportunities across all 13 Appalachian states.
Click here for more information about ARC’s ARISE Initiative, the NOSA and how to apply.
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