Archived News and Highlights2018-2013
In the Region This Week: December 20
In this issue: ARC launches Recovery-to-Work Listening Sessions to identify economic impacts of Region's current substance abuse crisis; WV Community Development Hub convenes West Virginia's POWER grantees to discuss emerging economic opportunities in Central Appalachia's coal-impacted communities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: December 13
In this issue: ADHS making continued progress across Region, including 16 new miles of roadway opening to traffic this week in Scioto County, Ohio; Surry Community College opens state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing training center in Yadkinville, North Carolina. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: December 6
In this issue: 150 Appalachian students visit Washington, D.C., for 18th annual Appalachian Teaching Project; Williamston, South Carolina's Main Street revitalization strategy draws on the economic value of the area's cultural and historic heritage. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 29
In this issue: ARC and NACo announce plans for forthcoming Appalachian Substance Abuse Response Initiative; ADHS Corridor N opens in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. ARC Welcomes 150 Students to Appalachian Teaching Project Symposium in Washington, D.C.
On November 30 and December 1, 2018, ARC will host 150 students from 15 Appalachian based colleges and universities at the 18th annual Appalachian Teaching Project (ATP) Conference in Washington, D.C. Supported by ARC and organized by the Center for Appalachian Studies and Services at East Tennessee State University, ATP is an applied-research training program for college and graduate students to design community based economic development initiatives across the Appalachian Region. As a capstone to this work, students and their faculty sponsors present their work to other student delegations from ATP participating institutions, ARC leadership, and community leaders in a formal peer-to-peer symposium in Washington, D.C. Since the program began in 2001, over 2,250 college and graduate students from across the Region have participated in ATP. Read the press release. In the Region This Week: November 15
In this issue: In celebration of National Rural Health Day, a special issue focuses on health-related issues across the Region including: bright spots in health, expanding health care access using the J-1 Visa Waiver program, developing the health care workforce, and addressing the Region's substance abuse crisis. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 8
In this issue: ARC Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas celebrates Philanthropy West Virginia's 25th birthday and encourages local funders to engage in Region's substance abuse crisis; National Apprenticeship Week is coming November 12-18. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 1
In this issue: Appalachian North Carolina invests in the economic potential of local agriculture, outdoor recreation, and manufacturing equipment; virtual "career coaching" for in-demand high-paying jobs debuts in Mississippi. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In Focus October 2018: Appalachia's Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
In this issue, ARC's quarterly newsletter looking at our most recent research topics explores key building blocks for a successful entrepreneurial ecosystem; how Appalachian communities are putting these concepts to work; and what data and resources are available for each of the Region's 420 counties via Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Appalachia, a suite of research reports and resources supporting entrepreneurial ecosystem development in Appalachia. Read more and subscribe In the Region This Week: October 25
In this issue: ARC Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas visits industrial parks, land reclamation sites, health care facilities, and other economic development projects in Appalachian Georgia; Johnson College of Technology upgrades training systems to meet market demand for manufacturing in Pennsylvania. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. ARC Announces $26.5 Million to Diversify and Strengthen Region's Coal-Impacted Communities
ARC has announced $26.5 million to expand and diversify the economy in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities through the POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) Initiative. These awards support workforce training and education in manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and other industry sectors; invest in infrastructure enhancements to continue developing the Region's tourism, entrepreneurial, and agriculture sectors; and increase access to community-based capital, including impact-investing funds, venture capital, and angel investment streams. To date, ARC has awarded $120 million through the POWER Initiative to help coal-impacted communities in 309 Appalachian counties diversify and grow their economies. Read the press release. In the Region This Week: October 18
In this issue: Experts discuss strategies for expanding health care workforce in eastern Kentucky; multi-sector partnership prepares for strategic growth in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia?s shale and gas industries. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 11
In this issue: ARC announces 35 grants totaling $26.5 million to strengthen and diversify economy in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities; in Sequatchie County, Tennessee, creative, community-based partnerships help make county a Bright Spot for health. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 4
In this issue: New research identifies seven core elements of robust ecosystems, analyzes entrepreneurial dynamism in eight communities in North Carolina, Ohio, New York, Tennessee, West Virginia, Alabama, Maryland, and Virginia, and features localized metric data and resources for each of Appalachia's 420 counties; reliable broadband access is better for business in Cherry Creek, New York. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. ARC Releases New Research and Tools for Regional Entrepreneurship Development
Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Appalachia includes three reports which outline core elements necessary for a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, analyze eight community case studies to provide insight into the unique challenges faced by communities in Appalachia, and offer recommendations to support future economic development across the Region. A companion website compares entrepreneurial data and activity in each of Appalachia's 420 counties, and includes a working inventory of more than 1,000 support services available to entrepreneurs across the Region. Press release In the Region This Week: September 27
In this issue: STEM education at the root of economic development in Maryland's Garrett and Allegany counties; new makerspace expands creative entrepreneurship opportunities in Appalachian Georgia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. Legislative Update: President Trump Approves FY 2019 Energy and Water Appropriations Act, Including $165 Million for ARC
$165 million for ARC is included in the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water Appropriations Act which was signed into law by President Trump on September 21, 2018. This is the largest appropriation for ARC's nonhighway work in the agency's history. Legislative update In the Region This Week: September 20
In this issue: Appalachia Works: Expanding Opportunities for Our Region's Future, ARC's Annual Conference hosted by the State of Mississippi, features keynote discussion about how communities can attract and recruit large manufacturers and companies; Appalachia's 14 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) celebrate #HBCUweek. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. Legislative Update: $165 Million for ARC is Included in the Final Conference Report for the FY 2019 Energy and Water Appropriations Act
$165 million for ARC is included in the final Conference Report for the Fiscal Year 2019 Energy and Water Appropriations Act which passed both houses of Congress this week. This is the largest appropriation for ARC's nonhighway work in the agency's history. Legislative update In the Region This Week: September 13
In this issue: Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant, who is serving as this year's ARC States' Co-Chair, welcomed ARC Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas to his first official Commission business meeting with representatives of each of the Region's 13 states to discuss priorities, funding, and other issues critical to ARC's operations and over 350 community leaders, economic developers and practitioners attend ARC's annual conference Appalachia Works: Expanding Opportunities for Our Region's Future. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly snapshot. In the Region This Week: September 6
In this issue: SOAR (Shaping Our Appalachian Region) believes there is a future in eastern Kentucky; Jobs for America's Graduate (JAG) is reducing dropout rates in South Carolina, Mississippi, and West Virginia; and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are issued for continued research on health and to develop the Appalachian Leadership Institute. That, plus a sampling of other headlines from Appalachia, are in ARC's weekly snapshot. Read more and subscribe. FY 2019 ARC County Economic Status Designations Now Available
The Commission's annual county economic status analysis designates the 420 Appalachian counties as distressed, at-risk, transitional, competitive, or attainment, based on their ranking in a composite index drawing on the most recent data on unemployment, poverty, and per capita income. A similar analysis is applied to areas at the census-tract level. Resources available include data, tables, and an interactive map feature. New Research and Website Highlight Health in Appalachia, Ten "Bright Spot" Counties Where Health is Better than Expected
Three new resources released by ARC, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky offer a fresh approach to understanding health in Appalachia by focusing on community strengths and identifying local factors supporting a Culture of Health. These resources include case studies of ten "Bright Spot" counties, which have better-than-expected health outcomes; the performance-focused research methodology that helped identify these counties; and HealthinAppalachia.org, a website that explores extensive county-level health data for the Appalachian Region. Press release In the Region This Week: August 30
In this issue: Working together, the Kentucky Rural Water Association (KRWA) and ARC are upgrading water systems across Appalachian Kentucky; community colleges, technical training classes, and certificate programs across the Region are prepared for back-to-school season with new equipment and facilities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: August 23
In this issue: Resources for understanding diabetes in the Region include the Appalachian Diabetes Control and Translation Project and research from the "Culture of Health in Appalachia" initiative; a new inland port in northwest Georgia spurs additional infrastructure development—bringing growth opportunity to southern Appalachia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: August 16
In this issue: Newly released ARC county economic status analysis finds that 81 Appalachian counties will be considered economically distressed in FY 2019—a drop from 84 counties in FY 2018, and the lowest number of counties designated as such in the past decade. ARC Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas visits Ohio to discuss issues around dental-care access, workforce development, and the petrochemical industry, and joins Congressman Tim Ryan (OH-13) to announce ARC investment in an advanced manufacturing resource center. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In Focus July 2018: New Resources Explore Health in Appalachia
ARC's quarterly newsletter looks at a new health data analysis that identifies Appalachian "Bright Spot" communities—those with health outcomes that are better than expected given local socioeconomic factors and resource limitations. Ten companion case studies look at health-promoting practices in these communities that may contribute to those outcomes. Read more and subscribe Legislative Update: Senate, House Approve FY 2019 Appropriations Bills Containing ARC Funding
Both bills provide $155 million for ARC's nonhighway programs, including $50 million for the POWER Initiative to help Appalachian communities adversely impacted by changes in the coal industry and power sector. Legislative update New Data Visualization Tool Enables In-Depth, County-by-County Look at Impact of Opioid Epidemic in Appalachia
Developed by NORC at the University of Chicago and ARC, the Appalachian Overdose Mapping Tool integrates overdose mortality rates for Appalachia's 420 counties with data on socioeconomic factors including unemployment, poverty, disability, and others. Press release ARC Releases FY 2017 State-by-State Investment Overview
The overview includes fact sheets detailing ARC's fiscal year 2017 economic development investments in each of the 13 Appalachian states, as well as a regional investment summary. Press release In the Region This Week: August 9 Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas joins Congressman Evan Jenkins to tour southern West Virginia to discuss economic diversity, opportunities and challenges; seven communities take part in the Appalachian Gateway Communities Initiative's Advanced Implementation Workshop to foster economic growth and protect their natural ecosystems, landscapes and cultural heritage of "gateway" communities; the College of Maryland's automotive technology program adds diesel service training to widen the employment options of its graduates. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: August 2
Congressional roundtable examines impact of and solutions for opioid crisis in Appalachia; Isothermal Community College broke ground on a new agribusiness site in North Carolina; Center for Manufacturing Technology Excellence role touted as economic driver in Mississippi. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 26
Middle school students and high school students and teachers presented research from their time at residential summer STEM programs at renowned national laboratory last week; new resources offer fresh approach to understanding health in Appalachia by focusing on community strengths and identifying local factors supporting a Culture of Health; early-bird registration pricing for ARC Annual Summit ends Friday, July 27. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 19
As part of his ongoing regional tour, ARC Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas visited ARC investments in southwest Virginia and eastern Tennessee, including a Veterinary Teaching Center; new campaign celebrating the future of Appalachia will be showcased at the annual SOAR Summit; Spartanburg Community College in South Carolina gets Industry 4.0 grant. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 12
The Community and Economic Development Initiative of Kentucky is providing a regional approach to revitalize downtowns in an eight-county region in the southeast of the state; lavender cultivation on reclaimed surface mine land is good business in West Virginia; new makerspace opens in Athens, Ohio. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 28
ARC and EDA announce a joint $1.2 million investment to Chickamauga, Georgia, for critical upgrades to water system serving a flooring manufacturing factory and other business; as part of tourism efforts, ground is broken for a new boat landing that will allow visitors convenient, safe river access in Southwest Virginia; University of Tennessee and ARC conduct a Region-wide study of Appalachian tourism. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 21
ARC States' Co-Chair Phil Bryant and Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas meet in Mississippi to discuss their shared priorities for the Region, including workforce development and combating the Region's opioid crisis; Community Colleges of Appalachia and the Appalachian Higher Education Network hold gatherings highlighting postsecondary education; beekeeping collective is bringing diversification to the Central Appalachian economy. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 14
Produce auction in Central Appalachia brings increased business for farmers and artisans and better access to healthy food for residents; Williamson, West Virginia, launches free Wi-Fi access for area residents and tourists that visit downtown businesses on the weekend; natural beauty and outdoor recreation are tops in southern and eastern Kentucky. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 7
ARC continues to invest in transportation connectivity, mobility, and trade in Appalachia, leverage funding and implementation opportunities, and help the Region prioritize multimodal transportation initiatives; extensions of popular trail in Spartanburg, South Carolina, are boosting healthy living and spurring economic development; coalfield students have high hopes for drone industry jobs. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 31
ARC Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas travels to Appalachian Ohio to attend State of the Region conference and visit ARC-funded entrepreneurship, workforce, and infrastructure projects; diabetes coalitions work to prevent and control diabetes in Appalachia; historic mill in Georgia is being restored as a cultural tourism draw. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 24
Recent economic forum focused on cultivating the hidden talent potential in Southwest Virginia and identifying the roadmap for future needs; displaced workers in Appalachian Pennsylvania and Ohio are training for in-demand jobs in the gas industry; Alabama program celebrates two years of success delivering workforce and other adult education courses. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: Senate, House Appropriations Committees Approve FY 2019 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bills Containing ARC Funding
Each of the appropriations bills provides a total of $155 million for ARC's nonhighway programs, including $50 million for the POWER Initiative to help Appalachian communities adversely impacted by changes in the coal industry and power sector. Legislative update In the Region This Week: May 17
One ARC POWER project is building a model for sustainable employment for community health workers that benefits high-risk patients; improved infrastructure in Appalachian Georgia is spurring economic development; telepsychiatry program offers mental health services to rural students in New York. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 10
Successful startup businesses launched with assistance from Mississippi State's Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach; medical center in Appalachian Maryland is improving patient care with new communications technology; the Ohio University Innovation Center is expanding equipment available in its additive manufacturing lab. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 3
ARC Federal Co-Chair Tim Thomas makes inaugural trip to Appalachian Kentucky for strategic meetings and to visit key projects; West Virginia business incubator gives first annual awards for entrepreneurship; upcoming webinar on rural opioid resources will help organizations prepare for future funding opportunities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In Focus April 2018: Data Tools for Economic Development in Appalachia
Data is a key tool in planning for economic growth, helping leaders identify opportunities, make resource decisions, and build stronger action plans. ARC's quarterly newsletter In Focus looks at two new ARC data resources communities can use to develop more data-driven strategies: the "Chartbook," a topical overview of Appalachian socioeconomic and demographic data, and the Appalachian Overdose Mapping Tool. Read more and subscribe In the Region This Week: April 26
Ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrates opening of new Farm and Food Education Center in Tennessee; Bluefield State College's Center of Excellence in Manufacturing Education is developing advanced manufacturing programming for West Virginia; ARC and the Population Reference Bureau release data report offering insights on socioeconomic and demographic change in Appalachia at the regional, subregional, state, and county levels. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 19
Hocking College in Ohio celebrates the opening of a new state-of-the-art welding lab, part of its Appalachia RISES POWER project; East Kentucky Food and Dance Trail catalogs local heritage assets and helps leverage a newly developed regional identity around heritage food and dance traditions; Cornell Cooperative Extension of Steuben County to boost tourism and grow agribusiness in New York's Southern Tier. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 12
ARC welcomes new federal co-chair, Tim Thomas; community colleges in Appalachia work with industry to build career pipelines for economic growth; North Carolina community uses its music heritage for economic development. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 5
Community Broadband Playbook provides resources for communities in North Carolina to build a broadband strategy; expanded Nursing and Allied Health program in Appalachian Alabama attracts students and prepares them for successful careers in growing healthcare field; extended rail service to benefit southwestern Virginia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: March 29
New website connects West Virginia manufacturers and job seekers to opportunities; Appalachian Ohio local development districts work closely with ARC to improve healthcare, infrastructure, and education; angel investors and maker programs boost entrepreneurship in New York's Allegany County. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: FY 2018 Omnibus Appropriations Legislation Includes $155 Million for ARC
Signed by President Trump on March 23, the omnibus bill provides the highest level of funding for ARC's nonhighway programs in the agency's history. Legislative update In the Region This Week: March 22
New visual data tool from NORC at the University of Chicago maps opioid overdoses and deaths in Appalachia with socioeconomic factors; students from Pikeville High School in Kentucky given a humanitarian award during the annual Development District Association of Appalachia conference in Washington; ground is broken for new water treatment plant in Ohio. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: March 15
After eight years of service to Appalachia as ARC federal co-chair, Earl Gohl ends his tenure with the agency; the Prosperity Fund fosters entrepreneurial activity in business sectors that have significant potential for economic growth in Alabama; apprenticeships help train new technical workers. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: March 8
Digital Careers Now is building the digital economy in eastern Kentucky by bridging the gap between employers and career seekers; Social Enterprise Ecosystem Appalachia and regional partners aim to boost rural impact investing; the Appalachian Innovators series shines a spotlight on people, programs, and policies doing things differently. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: March 1
ARC holds annual Governors' Quorum Meeting and releases FY 2017 investment fact sheets; a new report documents the AHE Network's efforts to increase post-secondary education attainment in Appalachia; advanced manufacturing incubator to be developed by North Carolina Community College. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: February 22
The Conservation Fund will host an advanced 3-day workshop designed for Appalachian "gateway" communities ready to implement projects to expand tourism, arts, and other economic development opportunities; new call center will bring 100 jobs to distressed county in Tennessee; Alabama high school to expand health science program. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: February 15
Over 170 community leaders, economic developers, and project partners were on hand for the first of five regional workshops about ARC's POWER Initiative; less than two years after investment in wi-fi expansion in North Carolina, communities are seeing success; community college adds machinist technology degree. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Administration Requests $152 Million for ARC for FY 2019
Released February 12, the administration's proposed budget for fiscal year 2019 requests $152 million for ARC programs and assumes no major policy or programmatic changes for Commission activities. ARC FY 2019 performance budget justification Legislative Update: Continuing Resolution Extends Government Funding through March 23
Signed by the president on February 9, the legislation continues agency funding, including ARC's, at the FY 2017 level, minus a small across-the-board reduction. It also sets overall budget numbers to guide the congressional appropriations committees in drafting an omnibus appropriations bill for the rest of FY 2018. Legislative update In the Region This Week: February 8
Leaders in Appalachia explore ways to spur private investment in the social determinants of health in the Region; award-winning career expo helps Mississippi students find career pathways; new wave of farmers is reviving stripmines with lavender crop. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: February 1
ARC announces a new request for proposals for POWER funding to strengthen Appalachia's coal-impacted communities; new simulation lab helps prepare students in western North Carolina for health sciences and emergency services; NC Rural Center receives grant to deliver leadership training in NC's Appalachian region. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Issues POWER Request for Proposals to Help Appalachia's Coal-Impacted Communities Diversify and Grow Local Economies
On February 1, ARC issued a request for proposals (RFP) for 2018 POWER Initiative funding to help coal-impacted communities in Appalachia diversify and strengthen their local economies. Priority areas for investment through the RFP include developing a competitive workforce, enhancing access to and use of broadband services, fostering entrepreneurial activities, and developing industry clusters. ARC is making up to $20 million available through the RFP. Press release In the Region This Week: January 25
ASP's New Build project constructs safe, energy-efficient housing for low-income residents in eastern Tennessee; CentralApp apprentices earn first certification as part of IT training; ARC releases new research examining the impacts of declining coal production on the Region's economy. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Announces Research Series Examining the Impacts of Declining Coal Production on the Region's Economy
The January 2018 research series An Economic Analysis of the Appalachian Coal Industry Ecosystem is the first comprehensive assessment of current and potential effects the changing coal industry can have on the Appalachian Region. The series' five reports explore some of the current and future economic effects of declining coal production on components of Appalachia's coal industry ecosystem, including production and employment, supply chain industries, transportation, electric power generation, and human capital. Press release Legislative Update: Continuing Resolution Extends Government Funding through February 8
Signed January 22, the legislation continues ARC's funding at the FY 2017 level, minus a small across-the-board reduction. Commission programs and activities funded through the legislation are the same as those funded through the agency's FY 2017 appropriation. Legislative update In the Region This Week: January 18
EntreEd kicks off educator training to help schools build Appalachia's next-gen entrepreneurs; ORAU research recommends reshaping outreach messaging in fight against opioid abuse; West Virginia's post-mine mountaintops offer new opportunities for agriculture. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Registration Now Open for ARC Workshops on POWER Funding Opportunities for Coal-Impacted Communities
ARC will hold five free workshops across the Region in February and March to help coal-impacted communities learn about the objectives of the 2018 POWER Initiative, which organizations are eligible for this funding, and how to develop a competitive funding proposal. Learn more In the Region This Week: January 11
ARC welcomes Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant in leadership role as 2018 states' co-chair; southern West Virginia's public colleges forge higher-education alliance for economic growth in 21-county region; Pennsylvania's Greene County retools former mine workforce training center to build high-demand skills. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant Is Named 2018 ARC States' Co-Chair
Chosen by his fellow Appalachian governors to serve as the Commission's 2018 states' co-chair, Bryant will work directly with the ARC federal co-chair in the leadership role. Press release In the Region This Week: January 4
"Investments in action" snapshots show range of ARC's strategic investment goals; Shoals Shift sparks digital business culture in north Alabama; West Virginia's popular Hatfield-McCoy ATV trail system spurs rapid tourism growth in region. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. President Trump Nominates Tim Thomas to Serve as ARC Federal Co-Chair
Announced by the White House on January 4, the nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works on January 8 for consideration. News brief In Focus January 2018: Exploring Change in Appalachia's Coal Ecosystem
Decline in Appalachian coal production can create a broad spectrum of changes for communities beyond coal mining job loss. ARC's quarterly newsletter In Focus looks at a new research series examining major trends in the Region's coal economy over the last decade and exploring some of the current and potential impacts these shifts can have on elements of the coal industry ecosystem, including supply chain industries, transportation, electric power generation, and human capital. Read more and subscribe 2017
Legislative Update: Continuing Resolution Extends Government Funding through January 19
Signed December 22, the legislation continues ARC's funding at the FY 2017 level, minus a small across-the-board reduction. Commission programs and activities funded through the legislation are the same as those funded through the agency's FY 2017 appropriation. Legislative update In the Region This Week: December 21
Behavioral health services boost builds stronger health and workforce opportunity in South Carolina; mobile learning lab brings customized training to Mississippi's automotive-supplier workers; Ohio community's culture of learning spurs student success. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: December 14
ARC Federal Co-Chair testifies in House hearing on economic impacts of Appalachia's opioid crisis; nonprofit ISP wires rural western North Carolina communities for wi-fi; Tennessee mentor network guides a growing cadre of advanced energy entrepreneurs. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC-FHWA Webinar Examines Economic Impacts of the Appalachian Development Highway System
In a one-hour webinar held December 13, ARC and the Federal Highway Administration discussed key findings of the 2017 study Economic Analysis of Completing the Appalachian Development Highway System, and the role the highway system plays in Appalachia's economic development. Watch the recorded webinar | Download the Webinar presentation (PDF: 5 MB) ARC Federal Co-Chair Gives Congressional Testimony on Impacts of Opioid Abuse in Appalachia
On December 12, ARC Federal Co-Chair Earl Gohl testified before the House of Representatives' Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management about the threat the opioid crisis poses for Appalachia's economic prosperity. Read the testimony Legislative Update: Continuing Resolution Extends Government Funding through December 22
Signed December 8, the legislation continues ARC's funding at the FY 2017 level, minus a small across-the-board reduction. Commission programs and activities funded through the legislation are the same as those funded through the agency's FY 2017 appropriation. Legislative update In the Region This Week: December 7
Student research teams present sustainable community development solutions at 2017 Appalachian Teaching Project symposium; Pennsylvania partnership helps at-risk youth bridge soft-skills gap to world of work; West Virginia college launches drone tech program to meet growing workplace demand. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Hosts Student Leaders from 11 States at 2017 Appalachian Teaching Project Conference
At the 17th annual ATP conference in Washington December 1–2, students and faculty from 13 Appalachian colleges and universities presented their research on sustainable solutions to challenges facing their communities, many of which are in economically distressed counties. Press release In the Region This Week: November 30
Western North Carolina rebuilds rural manufacturing through Industrial Commons innovation; Appalachian communities and changemakers give voice to their #TransformingAppalachia vision; entrepreneurs get boost to grow tourism businesses along West Virginia's Hatfield-McCoy trail. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 16
Health care training efforts help Appalachia's rural communities build stronger workforces and jobs; Appalachian Spring Initiative taps into Virginia's natural assets for tourism growth; reclaimed mine sites offer fresh opportunity for ag entrepreneurs in West Virginia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 9
WV Good Jobs Conference spotlights entrepreneurs' ideas and impacts in reshaping region's economy; state-of-the-art sciences center gives Tennessee college students in-demand skills; business coaching center connects southern West Virginia startups with tourism opportunities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 2
In North Carolina's High Country, new angel fund invests local capital to strengthen startups; food venture incubators look to expand markets for Central Appalachia meat producers; business pitch competition will help build business in downtown Erwin, Tennessee. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 26
New hospital residency program attracts needed physicians to Appalachian Mississippi; Alfred State students get hands-on learning in power sports technology lab; growing law school boosts economic diversification in southwest Virginia communities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. 
Resources Available from ARC's October "Transforming Appalachia" Summit
The Commission's 2017 annual conference, held in Pittsburgh, focused on key issues shaping the Region's future, including developing a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, strengthening businesses, addressing health challenges, and capitalizing on natural and cultural assets. See summit presentations and resources In Focus October 2017: Putting Appalachia's Health in an Economic Context
Identifying and addressing health challenges are important steps to helping Appalachia's communities and local economies thrive. ARC's new quarterly looks at recent research on key health issues affecting the Region today, and at successful efforts to help make communities healthier. Read more and subscribe In the Region This Week: October 19
"Transforming Appalachia" summit spotlights opportunities and ideas shaping the Region's economic future; students take the stage at Pittsburgh meeting to describe ARC STEM, technology investment impacts; northeastern Mississippi cross-training lab energizes region's growing manufacturing workforce. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 12
Alabama "idea audition" gives local entrepreneurs a launchpad to next level; LIGHTS partnership energizes southeastern Ohio's ecosystem for startup growth and investment; Pennsylvania universities collaborate in new Innovation Beehive Network to boost small business. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 5
Kentucky, Alabama communities prep action plans to create "Healthy Places for Healthy People;" Georgia tech ed program builds bridge to career success for unemployed adults; herb hub helps local farmers access high-value markets. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: September 28
PAGE program empowers rural North Carolina girls for life and leadership; Corner Market mobile grocery brings one-stop shopping to Appalachian Alabama food deserts; Tech Belt innovation center grows early-stage businesses in energy and beyond. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: September 21
Appalachian communities build economic opportunities from brownfields; Kentucky's Brushy Fork Institute helps leaders make "Relationship Economy" connections; Startup Alleghenies gives new businesses a boost in Pennsylvania's coal-impacted communities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Registration Now Closed for ARC's 2017 Annual Conference
The sold-out conference, to be held October 17-19 in Pittsburgh, will explore the theme "Transforming Appalachia: Embracing Change to Drive Progress." Sessions will focus on key issues shaping the Region's future, including developing a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, strengthening businesses, addressing health challenges, and capitalizing on natural and cultural assets. Learn more In the Region This Week: September 14
Appalachian export trade council helps rural businesses go global; research analyzes mortality impacts of "diseases of despair," including opioid overdose, in the Region; West Virginia's CentralApp launches learn-to-earn tech apprenticeship program. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: President Signs Legislation Extending Government Funding through December 8
Signed September 8, the legislation continues ARC's funding at the FY 2017 level, minus a small across-the-board reduction. Commission programs and activities funded through the legislation are the same as those funded through the agency's FY 2017 appropriation. Legislative update Study Examines Disparities Related to "Diseases of Despair" in Appalachia
A new ARC-commissioned report analyzes the impact of "diseases of despair" on mortality within the Appalachian Region, focusing on increasing morbidity and mortality from three main causes: alcohol, prescription drug, and illegal drug overdose; suicide; and alcoholic liver disease/cirrhosis of the liver. The report was prepared by the Walsh Center for Rural Health Analysis. Read the report In the Region This Week: September 7
New ARC POWER awards bring total investment in coal-impacted Appalachia to $94 million; Maryland college builds state-of-the-art STEM programs to boost region's future workforce; factory–turned–training hub gives West Virginia workers wide-ranging career skills. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Announces Nearly $2 Million in Additional POWER Investments in Central Appalachia
The Commission has now invested a total of more than $94 million through the POWER Initiative in the past year to diversify the economies of 250 coal-impacted counties across 11 Appalachian states. These investments are projected to create or retain nearly 8,800 jobs, leverage an additional $210 million in investment, and benefit thousands of workers and students. Press release In the Region This Week: August 31
Experts and leaders in the Region join ARC in Tennessee to discuss new health data and economic development in Appalachia; project brings entrepreneurial education to more than 10,000 students in K-12 schools in coal-impacted communities; former Virginia school will be transformed into drone research and recreational facility. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: August 24
New report measuring population health in Appalachia documents disparities in health outcomes between Region and U.S.; "I3" project boosts industry connections, tech training capacity at community colleges in coal-impacted communities; YouthBuild opens doors to opportunity for rural West Virginia youth. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Report Documents Health Disparities in Appalachia
A study issued by ARC, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky documents dramatic disparities in health outcomes and other health-related factors in the Appalachian Region, compared with the nation as a whole. The first part of a multi-part research project, the study reviewed 41 health indicators to provide a comprehensive overview of the health of the Region's 25 million people, and examined 20-year trends for selected indicators. Press release In the Region This Week: August 17
Mountain Harvest Kitchen brings fresh opportunities for food and farm entrepreneurs in Tennessee's Unicoi County; new applied science center will help North Carolina students build skills for advanced manufacturing careers; West Virginia targets tech ed to expand high-skills workforce. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: August 10
Kentucky community college presidents take "entrepreneurship pledge" to boost local business; new optometry college looks to expand health workforce and services in coal-impacted region; Ohio partners help businesses create opportunity through technology change. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Releases FY 2018 County Economic Status Data and Maps
The Commission's annual county economic status analysis designates Appalachian counties as economically distressed, at-risk, transitional, competitive, or attainment, based on their ranking in an index-based economic classification system. Resources available include county-level data on key indicators and an interactive map feature. In the Region This Week: August 3
Farms and food entrepreneurs fuel economic growth in New York's Southern Tier; ARC releases FY 2018 economic status designations for Appalachian counties; North Carolina's Filling the Gap program helps STEM teachers create real-world curricula. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 27
Appalachian students and teachers conduct cutting-edge research in ARC-ORNL summer STEM programs; communities share local-food successes at Local Foods, Local Places peer summit; West Virginia maps tourism strategies to build on thriving Hatfield-McCoy ATV trails. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: House Approves FY 2018 Appropriations Legislation Containing $130 Million for ARC
Approved on July 27, the legislation provides $70 million for ARC's regular program and $50 million for the POWER Initiative to help communities adversely impacted by changes in the coal industry and power sector. Legislative update Legislative Update: Senate, House Appropriations Committees Approve FY 2018 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bills Containing ARC Funding
The Senate appropriations bill provides $142 million for ARCs nonhighway programs; the House bill contains $130 million. Full House consideration of the legislation is expected the week of July 24. Legislative update In the Region This Week: July 20
In South Carolina's upcountry, development tour highlights diverse ARC investments in entrepreneurship, local agriculture, and tourism; new study estimates economic impacts of the Appalachian Development Highway System; West Virginia's Appalachian Hatchery helps coal-focused manufacturers shift markets. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. New ARC Study Illustrates Continued Economic Impact of the Appalachian Development Highway System
The study estimates the economic outcomes of work completed on the ADHS to date, and forecasts the future economic impacts, benefits, and costs associated with completing the system. Estimates indicate that the ADHS generates $19.6 billion in added business sales per year, as well as $10.7 billion annually in transportation cost savings and productivity gains. Press release In the Region This Week: July 13
Arts trails in Appalachia connect, promote, and increase revenues for independent artists and crafts workers; QuickJobs Training Center trains workers for in-demand jobs in South Carolina; RCBI's TEN50 Accelerator fosters entrepreneurship. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 6
Ground broken for new building to house expanded industrial training programs in Tennessee; Sustainable Jobs Initiative creating a buzz around growing industries in Central Appalachia; Virginia's Crooked Road anchors century-old tradition of live music in state. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 29
ARC POWER grantees connect peer-to-peer to boost Appalachia's coal-impacted communities; rural students prep for higher-education success with help from AHEN; Ohio–West Virginia program targets social enterprise start-ups for stronger local economies. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 22
Healthy Places for Healthy People program highlights health's role in rural downtown revitalization; Startup Alleghenies launches small-business support for Pennsylvania entrepreneurs; Appalachian Ohio's "maker spaces" to create innovative skills training opportunities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 15
ARC invests additional $15.7 million to diversify economies in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities; former coal workers get career retraining pathways through POWER; West Virginia's Sprouting Farms grows skills for sustainable agriculture businesses. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Announces $15.7 Million in Additional Investments to Strengthen Economies in Region's Coal-Impacted Communities
On June 14, ARC announced $15.7 million in investments to help grow the economies in coal-impacted communities in seven Appalachian states. With these awards, ARC has now invested more than $92 million to diversify the economies in 250 coal-impacted counties across 11 Appalachian states. Press release In the Region This Week: June 8
Innovation Works training grads learn lessons for new business success in Pennsylvania's coal-impacted communities; LaunchTN accelerates job growth through entrepreneurship in Appalachian Tennessee; regional music, food, and culture take center stage at Mountains of Music events in southwest Virginia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 1
Trail Town Maryland boosts tourism dollars and development in trail communities; Appalachian Community Capital invests in small business to revitalize rural economies; telehealth technology brings health care closer to home for Alabama patients. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 25
Appalachian social entrepreneurs explore building business for profit and positive impact at ACOSE 2017; Green Forests Work grows opportunity, honors Flight 93 by reforesting former Pennsylvania mine site; Kentucky's Justin Hall is one of Fast Company's "100 most creative" for retraining coal workers for coding careers. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 18
Dream It Do It manufacturing initiative makes classroom-to-career connection in New York high schools; West Virginia county offers harm-reduction help as part of substance abuse prevention strategy; stargazing tourism poses economic development opportunity for rural areas. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Seeks Proposals for Communications and Community Outreach Technical Assistance Services
ARC is soliciting proposals for technical assistance services to help ARC POWER grantees specializing in economic development in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities develop additional skills in communications and community outreach. Proposals are due June 1. Request for proposals (PDF: 200 KB) In the Region This Week: May 11
Action-planning workshop helps Appalachian "gateway" communities get ready for natural and cultural heritage tourism; Smiling Schools brings oral health care to eastern Kentucky elementary students; southwest Virginia economic forum explores avenues to regional job growth. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: President Trump Signs FY 2017 Omnibus Appropriations Legislation
On May 5, the president signed compromise legislation funding the federal government through the end of fiscal year 2017. The measure provides $152 million for ARC programs. Legislative update In the Region This Week: May 4
New West Alabama Works career center opens doors to high-demand industries; Pennsylvania school for deaf students gets a SMART tech boost; "Mining Your Business" entrepreneurship program gives displaced workers skills to succeed. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: FY 2017 Omnibus Appropriations Legislation Includes $152 Million for ARC
The May 1 omnibus bill provides $6 million more for ARC's FY 2017 programs than the Commission received for FY 2016. House and Senate action on the legislation is pending. Legislative update In the Region This Week: April 27
Appalachian Hatchery grows new opportunities in coal-impacted southern West Virginia; Toccoa makes an economic mark as one of Georgia's Exceptional Main Streets; drone port could bring high-tech R&D jobs to Kentucky. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 20
Community-based organizations in Appalachia use social media to get the message out against substance abuse; northwest Georgia is the global leader in the floor-covering industry; new crafts trail will lead tours to Blue Ridge artists. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 13
Appalachia's railways face new challenges as coal economy changes; downtown wifi success leads to broadband expansion plans for Eupora, Mississippi; Local Foods, Local Places initiative helps West Virginia community boost opportunities for farmers and food entrepreneurs. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 6
ARC's new data chartbook gives statistical insights on change in Appalachia; the Appalachia Funders Network explores regional investment opportunities to spur economic transition; West Virginia coalition is lauded for its healthy-lifestyle leadership. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: March 30
ARC invests additional $2.4 million to create economic opportunity in coal-impacted communities; in Appalachian Alabama, creative collaboration is key to "Shoals Shift" development strategy; West Virginia explores brownfield conversion for technology business facilities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Announces $2.4 Million in Additional Investments to Strengthen Economy in Region's Coal-Impacted Communities
On March 28, ARC announced $2.4 million in investments to continue diversifying the economy in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities. The investments will create and retain hundreds of jobs in advanced manufacturing and agriculture, build a workforce pipeline through the Region's community colleges, and identify additional economic opportunities for economic growth in West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. With these awards, ARC has now invested $75.5 million to diversify the economy in 236 coal-impacted counties across nine Appalachian states. Press release Applications Due March 24 for ARC-NEA Gateway Communities Technical Assistance Workshop
The May 9-11 workshop in Ringgold, Georgia, will help teams from Appalachian "gateway communities" develop sustainable action plans for capitalizing on their area's unique natural and cultural-heritage resources. Learn more and apply In the Region This Week: March 23
SOAR strategy to bring affordable broadband to eastern Kentucky; DDAA conference spotlights Appalachia's changing workforce development needs; "30 Mile Meal" branding program boosts West Virginia's food and farm businesses. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Applications Open for 2017 Summer STEM Programs for Appalachian Students and Teachers
ARC and Oak Ridge National Laboratory are accepting applications for the 2017 Summer Math-Science-Technology Institute for high school students and teachers, and the 2017 Summer Science Academy for middle school students. Both are hands-on residential STEM programs at ORNL in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Learn about the program curricula and how to apply at www.arc.gov/summerSTEM. In the Region This Week: March 16
Eastern Kentucky's tech sector builds momentum with workforce retraining for next-generation jobs; local food producers connect with wholesale markets on the Central Appalachian Food Enterprise Corridor; applications are due March 24 for "gateway communities" sustainable development workshop. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: President's FY 2018 Budget Blueprint Outlines Spending Priorities, Proposes Elimination of Agencies Including ARC
Released March 16, the president's budget blueprint proposes increased federal funding for certain defense, security, and other programs, with the increases offset by proposed reductions in or elimination of a range of programs, including ARC. Legislative update In the Region This Week: March 9
New status report on the Appalachian Development Highway System highlights construction progress, anticipated impacts; southwest Virginia training program will create career paths in region's power industry; Shoals Alabama Launchpad competition gives emerging local businesses a boost. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: March 2
New state fact sheet series shows ARC investment at work across Appalachia; VC2 Initiative builds resilient local-food businesses and jobs in West Virginia; Mountain BizWorks helps North Carolina small businesses get ready to scale up. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. 
New Resource: ARC Investment Fact Sheets
A new downloadable fact sheet series details ARC's recent investments and their impacts in each of the 13 Appalachian states and across the Region. In addition to funding data, the fact sheets offer snapshots of individual investments at work and county economic status maps. Download fact sheets In the Region This Week: February 23
ARC marks Black History Month with Tuskegee student scholarship award; EntreEd K–12 entrepreneurship education program kicks off at West Virginia community college; Kentucky high school STEM students send science project to International Space Station. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: February 16
"Gateway communities" target natural, cultural assets for sustainable-tourism action plans; Appalachian small businesses gear up for growth through Goldman Sachs training program; western North Carolina helps rural agritourism opportunities take root. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: February 9
Shoals Innovation Week promotes idea sharing among Alabama entrepreneurs; Appalachia Funders Network gathering highlights promising sectors for economic transition in Central Appalachia; new "digital innovation hubs" will fast-track training for tech jobs in eastern Kentucky. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf Is Named 2017 ARC States' Co-Chair
Chosen by his fellow Appalachian governors to serve as the Commission's 2017 states' co-chair, Wolf will work directly with the ARC federal co-chair in the leadership role. Press release In the Region This Week: February 2
ARC welcomes Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf as its 2017 states' co-chair; ARC-ORNL summer STEM programs offer free hands-on learning for Appalachian students and teachers; Mississippi's HealthWorks! makes building healthy habits fun for families. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: January 26
ARC invests an additional $26 million to grow economies in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities; 2017 DDAA conference explores workforce development strategies for changing economies; southern West Virginia's "Appalachian Hatchery" will help diversify businesses in region's coal-supply chain. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Announces $26 Million to Strengthen Appalachia's Coal-Impacted Economy
On January 19, ARC announced $26 million in investments to diversify economies in coal-impacted communities in five Appalachian states. The 31 awards will allow communities to train more than 7,300 workers and students in certificate, credentialing, and other workforce development programs, and create or retain more than 2.500 jobs in the Region. These awards build on the $47 million ARC has invested since 2015 to help diversify economies in the Region's coal-impacted communities. Press release In the Region This Week: January 19
West Virginia community maps broadband expansion through Cool & Connected; NACo-NADO clinics help coal communities create strategies for stronger economies; eastern Kentucky pilot project aims to boost small-business growth through broadband. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: January 12
Appalachian POWER grantees share ideas for collaboration at Washington convening; Virginia's ASD builds healthier local economies and communities through agriculture; new SBA Business Recovery Center gives help for economic recovery after Tennessee wildfires. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: January 5
First TechHire Eastern Kentucky grads launch new IT careers; Mountain West Partnership builds resource hub to boost business in western North Carolina; West Virginia's Refresh Appalachia will redevelop former mine lands for food production. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. 2016
In the Region This Week: December 15
Golden Triangle breaks ground on "Communiversity" for high-tech workforce training; rural Virginia's New College Institute celebrates a decade of learning success; Berea's local-food focus helps build new economic opportunity after coal. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: President Obama Signs Legislation Extending Government Funding through April 28
Signed December 10, P.L. 114-254 continues funding for ARC programs and activities at the FY 2016 level, minus a .1901 percent across-the-board reduction. Legislative update In the Region This Week: December 8
Tennessee's new Energy Mentor Network gives energy technology startups guidance for growth; two Appalachian towns vie for Main Street makeover in national competition; rural Virginia clinic sees future in drone-delivered health care. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. 150 Appalachian Students Participate in Appalachian Teaching Project Conference in Washington
At the December 2–3 conference, student teams from 14 colleges and universities presented their applied research on economic and community development issues. Research projects for 2016 reflected key themes in ARC's strategic investment plan, including natural and cultural asset development, downtown revitalization, leadership and planning, workforce development, and health. Press release In the Region This Week: December 1
College students from 11 states share innovative development ideas Dec. 2–3 at Appalachian Teaching Project conference; West Virginia's HIVE business accelerator fosters cross-sector entrepreneurship in economically distressed counties; Tennessee wildfire relief efforts bring aid to affected communities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 17
New segment of West Virginia's Corridor H opens rural counties to economic opportunity; community colleges explore tools for teaching entrepreneurship skills; ARC partners with UT and WVU to study economic impact of coal industry changes across Appalachia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: November 10
National Rural Health Day Nov. 17 spotlights unique health care needs in rural America, calls on communities to celebrate the #powerofrural; Appalachian CDFIs will expand investments with $100 million in new funding; eastern Kentucky's "readiness bus" brings early education services to low-income kids. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Applications for Rural Advantage Community Planning Assistance Due November 6
ARC, EPA, and partner agencies invite rural communities to apply for planning assistance through Rural Advantage, a suite of programs that help communities develop strategies to grow their economies and revitalize downtown neighborhoods. Applications for assistance are due November 6. Learn more In the Region This Week: November 3
ARC launches enhanced Web tools for exploring data on Appalachia; Ohio looks to solar energy for sustainable job growth; former coal industry workers learn business-building skills in southwestern Pennsylvania. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 27
POWER Initiative invests additional $20.3 million to strengthen economies in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities; southwest Virginia POWER projects target drone and cybersecurity industries for job growth; NACCE summit seeks to expand entrepreneurship curriculum for Kentucky youth. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Announces $20.3 Million in Additional 2016 POWER Investments for Appalachia
On October 26, ARC announced the award of an additional $20.3 million in grants through the administration's POWER Initiative to help Appalachia's coal-impacted communities diversify and grow their economies. Building on the $26.7 million in ARC POWER investments announced in August, the grants will benefit an additional 32 Appalachian counties and leverage an estimated $47.7 million in additional investments. Press release In the Region This Week: October 20
Rural Advantage helps communities leverage broadband, local food, and health care assets for local development; IMCP boosts Appalachian manufacturing industries through regional collaboration; rural areas build arts hubs to spur economic growth. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 13
ARC invests in Appalachia's advanced manufacturing workforce; new partnership studies health impacts of opioid abuse in the Region; Rural Advantage community planning funds available through November 6. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: October 6
New ARC toolkit gives communities broadband planning help; White House Rural Council highlights rural development successes; SOAR Health Hack-a-thon targets Appalachia's unique health challenges. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Releases Toolkit to Help Rural Communities Expand Broadband Service
The Broadband Planning Primer and Toolkit offers information and resources to guide rural Appalachian communities as they undertake broadband planning and implementation efforts. Press release and toolkit In the Region This Week: September 29
Appalachian mining and construction businesses connect with new markets through MINExpo International; Culture of Health Prize spotlights communities working for good health; Mississippi community colleges anchor $10.5 million initiative to expand manufacturing workforce training. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Invests $8.9 Million to Boost Manufacturing Workforce Readiness in Mississippi
With ARC's support, three north Mississippi community colleges will train workers for technical jobs in the state's expanding aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing industries. News brief Legislative Update: President Obama Signs Legislation Extending Government Funding through December 9
Signed September 29, the legislation continues ARC's funding at the FY 2016 level. Legislative update In the Region This Week: September 22
Appalachian firms explore export opportunities in Central and South America at Trade Winds 2016; Operation UNITE's Voices of the Epidemic tells stories of the fight against opioid abuse; Big Ideas Fest helps eastern Kentuckians build a vision for the future. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: September 15
ARC invests $1.78 million in advanced-manufacturing training and rural wifi to boost western North Carolina's economy; tourism partners build on Appalachian Pennsylvania's bountiful natural assets. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Commission Announces $1.78 Million Investment to Strengthen Western North Carolina's Economy
On September 14, ARC announced nearly $1.8 million in investments that will help expand North Carolina's advanced manufacturing training programs and bolster wi-fi capabilities in ten rural communities. Press release In the Region This Week: September 8
TechHire Eastern Kentucky interns learn code for new careers; Try This West Virginia gives how-to help for healthier communities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: September 1
ARC's Aspire Appalachia conference showcases best practices in rural development; Carolina Textile District rebuilds manufacturing industry in western North Carolina; Virginia's first community solar project will bring clean energy to four Appalachian counties. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC's 2016 Annual Conference Focuses on Rural Development
The Commission's August 30–31 conference, in Johnson City, Tennessee, explored how strategic investments are helping Appalachia's rural communities build strong, resilient local economies. See conference videos and presentations In the Region This Week: August 25
2016 POWER investments announced this week will create new opportunities in Appalachia's emerging economic sectors; West Virginia roundtable showcases strategies for helping diversify local economies in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Announces $26.7 Million in 2016 POWER Investments in the Appalachian Region
On August 24, ARC announced the award of $26.7 million in grants through the administration's POWER Initiative to help stimulate economic growth and opportunity in Appalachia's coal-impacted communities. Part of the administration's total $38.8 million in 2016 POWER investments announced, the grants will benefit 142 counties in Appalachia and leverage an estimated $49.4 million in additional investments in the Region. Learn more In the Region This Week: August 18
Local groups use social media tools to combat Appalachia's opioid crisis; "gateway" communities create opportunity through natural and cultural assets; planning a future beyond coal. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Commission Seeks Proposals for Two New Research Studies
ARC invites proposals from qualified research teams for two new studies: one that will examine economic resilience in Appalachia, and one that will evaluate ARC leadership and community capacity projects. Proposals are due in late August. In the Region This Week: August 11
Farmers markets help grow jobs and local-food opportunities in Appalachian communities; new CDFI fund targets resources to northern Alabama's small businesses; coding camp retrains Pennsylvania miners for tech jobs. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Commission Seeks Proposals for Research Study on the Coal Industry Ecosystem in Appalachia
ARC invites proposals from qualified researchers and consultants to examine the full ecosystem of the coal industry in the Appalachian Region through in-depth quantitative analysis. The research will identify, quantify, analyze, and map data on the coal ecosystem throughout the Region. Proposals are due August 19. Request for proposals (PDF: 150 KB) In the Region This Week: August 4
Team training for NC community leaders sharpens project planning strategies; ARC research efforts guide investments in Appalachia; "Backroad Journeys" podcasts highlight innovative farmers and food entrepreneurs. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 28
Appalachian students build STEM skills and career aspirations at Oak Ridge summer program; inaugural summit puts focus on restoring Central Appalachia's brownfields; RISE West Virginia brings flood recovery help to small businesses. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 21
Maryland breaks ground for improved safety and expanded development potential along I-68; "Made in Rural America" workshops to help boost small-business exports; Appalachian Tennessee communities win grants to enhance local tourism. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: July 14
Southern Highland Craft Guild showcases crafts of nearly 900 Appalachian artists; Goodwill Job Training and Employment Program serves 95 individuals in six Appalachian counties; New York communities receive free health care through military readiness training event. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Seeks Proposals for Research Study on Entrepreneurial Ecosystems in Appalachia
The Commission invites proposals from qualified researchers and consultants to examine the landscape of entrepreneurship in Appalachia through in-depth quantitative and qualitative analysis. The research will document, analyze, and map data on entrepreneurial activity throughout the Region. Proposals are due July 15. Request for proposals (PDF: 75 KB) In the Region This Week: July 7
Community colleges spark entrepreneurial rebirth in Appalachia; Appalachian Food Summit focuses on preserving the Region's cooking traditions and creating a sustainable future; Abingdon, VA, town hall discusses the impact of opioid abuse in Central Appalachia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 30
TechHire initiative to boost high-tech training and employment in South-Central Appalachia; Google partnership brings mobile study hall to NC students; helping AL schoolkids get a healthy start with SightSavers screening. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 23
ARC's August Aspire Appalachia conference spotlights rural development; Appalachian Higher Education Network helps students in 10 states pursue post-secondary education; Amazon.com fulfillment center to employ 500 in Braselton, Georgia. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 16
Data chartbook gives a statistical snapshot of Appalachia; mining businesses to explore new opportunities through MINExpo; West Virginia is rising star in Hollywood film productions. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: June 9
Bon Appétit Appalachia! maps the Region's local food businesses; building an entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kentucky; "Save Our Towns" video series showcases southwest Virginia communities. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Releases Bon Appétit Appalachia! Map Guide to Local Food Businesses in Appalachia
ARC has released Bon Appétit Appalachia!, a searchable online map of local food businesses and entrepreneurs operating in the Appalachian Region. The map includes more than 830 local farms, restaurants, bakeries, breweries, wineries, and festivals in the 13 Appalachian states. An abridged print version of the map is being published in regional Edible Communities magazines in and around the Region. Press release In the Region This Week: June 2
SOAR Innovation Summit spotlights Kentucky's creative development strategies; Georgia communities get camera ready for the film industry; building skills for success at the New Opportunity School for Women. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 26
ARC's POWER team wraps up a regional workshop tour across five states; West Alabama Works mobile training unit hits the road; and coal miners consider pharmacy school. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 19
Building Appalachia's economy through infrastructure investments; Appalachia Funders Network creates progress through partnership; Ohio team works to revive region's manufacturing industry; Kentucky high school recognized as a National Silver Medal School. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Legislative Update: Senate Approves FY 2017 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Legislation Providing $151 Million for ARC
Approved by the Senate on May 12, the legislation provides $5 million more than the Commission received in FY 2016. The funding total includes $50 million for the administration's POWER Initiative to help coal-impacted communities. More In the Region This Week: May 12
Millions in new capital for CDFIs will boost small business in Appalachia; Rural Impact County Challenge to help rural communities address child poverty; and restoring Appalachia's forests. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: May 5
Celebrating National Small Business Week in Appalachia, starting a community-solar cooperative in Virginia, and an Ohio mill comes back to life. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. Study to Evaluate Highway System's Impact on the Appalachian Economy
An ARC study will look at how the Appalachian Development Highway System's development has affected economic growth in Appalachia, as well as the future economic benefits and costs of completing the system. The first volume of the study, which summarizes previously published ADHS impact studies, is now available; the full report will be published in mid 2017. Read volume 1 In the Region This Week: April 28
A Pennsylvania town builds new opportunity after coal; IMCP boosts northwest Georgia's floor-covering industry; and Huntsville tops list of best cities for STEM graduates. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. ARC Partners with National Institute on Drug Abuse to Improve Opioid Intervention Services in Appalachia
With ARC support, NIDA will provide one-year research grants to address the dramatic increase in adverse outcomes of opioid injection drug use in Appalachia. Findings will help build a foundation for improved intervention programs and larger-scale research efforts to provide services addressing this growing public health threat. Applications are due April 28. NIDA press release In the Region This Week: April 21
The Appalachia Funders Network explores strategies for Appalachian transition; bringing state-of-the-art health care to northeastern Pennsylvania; and new manufacturing jobs in North Carolina. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 14
ARC's POWER workshops kick off in Virginia; learning local solutions at the SOAR Innovation Summit; and community radio gives voice in Kentucky. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. In the Region This Week: April 7
What's In The Region this week? The Development District Association of Appalachia comes to Washington, resources to analyze economic diversity in Appalachia, stories about hip-hop in Appalachia, and more. Read more and subscribe to ARC's weekly news snapshot. POWER Workshops Registration Open
ARC is co-hosting a series of technical assistance workshops in Appalachia this spring to help coal-impacted communities determine whether they are eligible for POWER Initiative funding, identify potential projects and collaborators, and apply for support for project implementation and/or technical assistance. The POWER workshops are free and open to the public. Register now POWER Technical Assistance Support Available for Appalachia's Coal-Impacted Communities
ARC is now accepting applications for technical assistance through the 2016 POWER Initiative to help Appalachia's coal-impacted communities with economic development planning, assessment activities, and capacity building to create a more vibrant economic future. $1.2 million is available through this technical assistance effort, which complements the $45 million available through ARC's POWER Initiative implementation grants. Learn more Obama Administration Announces $65.8 Million Available for Economic and Workforce Development in Coal-Impacted Communities
Through the administration's POWER Initiative, communities negatively impacted by changes in the coal economy can apply for resources from ARC and EDA to develop new strategies for economic growth and worker advancement. Press release ARC Announces $45,000 Grant to the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham to Promote Public Health
The award is part of an effort by the Health Impact Project, a collaboration of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Pew Charitable Trusts, to promote health in Appalachian and southern states. Press release Obama Administration Requests $120 Million for ARC for FY 2017
The president's fiscal year 2017 budget request for ARC includes $50 million for the multiagency POWER Initiative, which targets federal resources to help coal-impacted communities diversify their economies, create jobs, and attract new sources of investment. Press release Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam is Named 2016 ARC States' Co-Chair
Haslam was selected by his fellow Appalachian governors to serve as the Commission's states' co-chair for 2016. Press release Appalachian Communities Receive 2016 Local Foods, Local Places Initiative Awards
Six Appalachian communities are among the 27 awardees nationwide who will receive technical support to integrate local food into their community development strategies to help create economic opportunity, improve access to healthy local food, and revitalize rural downtowns and main streets. Press release Application Period Open for 2016 ARC-ORNL Summer Science Programs
Application materials are now available for two ARC-Oak Ridge National Laboratory learning programs to be held in summer 2016: a high school math-science-technology institute for students and teachers, and a middle school science academy for students. Both programs are all expenses paid and offer the opportunity to work with world-class scientists. Application deadlines vary by state from early to mid March. Application information 2015
Legislative Update: President Obama Signs FY 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Legislation
Signed on December 18, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016, provides a total of $146 million for ARC. Legislative update ARC Hosts 120 Student Leaders at 2015 Appalachian Teaching Project Conference
Students and faculty representing 15 Appalachian colleges and universities participated in the 15th annual Appalachian Teaching Project (ATP) conference December 4–5, hosted by ARC. ATP helps build youth leadership by giving students the opportunity to develop applied research projects on emerging development issues in Appalachia and present their work to peers and leaders at an annual symposium. Press release Legislative Update: President Obama Signs Multi-Year Highway Bill Reauthorizing ARC through FY 2020
Signed by the president on December 4, P.L. 114-94 authorizes ARC's nonhighway program through FY 2020 at a funding level of $110 million a year. Legislative update Applications Due December 4 for ARC/NEA "Gateway Community" Technical Assistance Workshop
Community teams can apply through December 4 for a three-day regional workshop in Rogersville, Alabama, that will help them develop action plans for capitalizing on their area's unique natural and cultural-heritage resources. The workshop will be held February 9-11 at Joe Wheeler State Park. More information Appalachia to Get Boost from First Round of POWER Initiative Investments
ARC Federal Co-Chair Earl Gohl was joined by state and federal officials October 15 in announcing POWER awards made to six projects in the Region to help diversify economies in areas impacted by changes in the coal industry and power sector. Press release ARC's 2015 Annual Conference to be Held October 14-15
The Commission's 2015 conference, in Somerset, Kentucky, will showcase effective approaches to addressing key development issues facing Appalachian communities today. Sessions will focus on local models for increasing access to broadband, supporting employer-driven workforce development, and engaging the Region's next generation of leaders. More information Team Announced to Lead Innovative Community Health Research Project in Appalachia
PDA, Inc., of Raleigh, North Carolina, will be the lead investigator for "Creating a Culture of Health in Appalachia: Disparities and Bright Spots," a regional public health research project exploring health outcomes in Appalachian communities. The project is sponsored by ARC, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky. Press release ARC and NEA to Offer Technical Assistance Workshops for Appalachian "Gateway" Communities
The three-day regional workshops in Berea, Kentucky, and Rogersville, Alabama, will help community teams develop action plans for capitalizing on their area's unique natural and cultural-heritage resources. The workshop application deadline is October 6. More information ARC Announces Investment to Provide Equipment, Support for North Carolina's Textile Industry
On National Manufacturing Day, October 2, ARC announced $300,000 in grants for state-of-the-art equipment and support for the Manufacturing Solutions Center, a division of Catawba Valley Community College in Burke County, North Carolina; Industrial Commons; and the Carolina Textile District, a Morganton-based network of small and medium-sized textile and apparel manufacturers. The investment will help strengthen North Carolina textile manufacturers' global competitiveness. Press release Obama Administration Selects Three Appalachian Communities as Rural IMPACT Demonstration Sites
Berea, Kentucky; Hillsboro, Ohio; and Oakland, Maryland, were selected to participate in the national Rural IMPACT demonstration project to help communities adopt a comprehensive, whole-family framework for addressing child poverty. News brief Kentucky Launches Development of Statewide Broadband Network
ARC Federal Co-Chair Earl Gohl joined Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear and U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers at Hazard Community and Technical College on August 31 to launch the development of KentuckyWired, a statewide broadband network that will provide affordable, reliable high-speed Internet connectivity across the state. News brief Legislative Update: Senate Approves Six-Year Highway Reauthorization Bill; Congress Extends Funding for Highway Programs through October 29
Approved July 30, the Senate surface transportation bill includes a six-year reauthorization of ARC nonhighway programs, as well as authorization for a new broadband deployment initiative at the Commission. Congress has passed a three-month extension of federal highway program funding to allow continued work on the reauthorization legislation. Legislative update Applications Due September 15 for 2015 Local Foods, Local Places Assistance
Through the second round of the Local Foods, Local Places program, agencies including ARC will provide direct technical support to help communities build strong local food systems to spur economic growth. Press release ARC Seeks Proposals for Research Study on Impacts of ADHS Completion
The Commission invites proposals from qualified research teams and consultants to conduct a large-scale research study on the economic and transportation impacts of the completion of the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS). Proposals are due July 17, 2015. Request for proposals (PDF: 500 KB) NEW: RFP Questions and answers as of 7/13/15 (PDF: 100 KB) Applications Due July 10 for ARC POWER Implementation Grants
Appalachian communities can apply to ARC through July 10 for POWER Initiative implementation grants of up to $75,000 each. Part of the up to $35.5 million in implementation funding available from federal agencies, the ARC grants will help communities undertake economic and workforce development activities developed through a region-wide planning process. The POWER Initiative was launched in March to assist communities and workers negatively impacted by changes in the coal industry and power sector. More information NEW: Application email submission instructions (PDF: 70 KB) Pittsburgh Manufacturing Community is Selected for Support through National IMCP Competition
The Greater Pittsburgh Metals Manufacturing Community is one of 12 additional communities nationwide recognized through the federal Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership, which aims to accelerate the resurgence of manufacturing in the United States. The communities will receive coordinated support from ARC and other agencies. News brief Obama Administration Announces 2015 Local Foods, Local Places Assistance
Through the second round of the Local Foods, Local Places program, agencies including ARC will provide direct technical support to help communities build strong local food systems to spur economic growth. Applications are due September 15. Press release ARC's Strategic Planning Survey Open through June 19
ARC is conducting a public survey on the issues, challenges, and opportunities in Appalachian communities as it develops a new strategic plan to guide its economic and community development efforts in the Region over the period 2016-2020. The survey is open to all community members and takes 10 minutes or less to complete. Take the survey June 17 Workshop in Mississippi Will Highlight Federal Health Funding Opportunities
Representatives of community health-care and economic development organizations in Appalachian and Delta Mississippi and surrounding states are invited to join a technical assistance workshop June 17 on HRSA's funding opportunities for health-care initiatives, with an emphasis on health-care workforce development programs. Co-hosted by ARC, HRSA, and the Delta Regional Authority, the workshop will also offer strategies for writing an effective funding application. Registration is free. Participants are encouraged to prepare for the workshop by watching the "HRSA 101" webcast available on HRSA's Web site. ARC Announces Successful First-Round Investment Closing of Appalachian Community Capital
At the 2015 CGI America meeting on June 10, ARC Federal Co-Chair Earl Gohl announced the successful first-round investment closing of Appalachian Community Capital, a new central bank for development lenders that will increase the availability of capital to Appalachia's small businesses. More than $15 million in new investment capital has been committed. When fully funded, ACC is expected to leverage $233 million in private bank capital and help create 2,200 jobs. Press release and video Resources Available from EDA Webinar on POWER Initiative Grant Opportunities
On May 27, the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the National Association of Development Organizations, and the National Association of Regional Councils hosted a webinar to provide guidance on the competitive grant opportunities available through the administration's POWER Initiative, including $500,000 in implementation grants from ARC. A recording of the webinar and presentation slides are now on the NADO Web site. May 27 Webinar Will Focus on POWER Initiative Grant Opportunities
The U.S. Economic Development Administration, the National Association of Development Organizations, and the National Association of Regional Councils will host a webinar May 27 on the competitive grant opportunities available through the administration's POWER Initiative, a multi-agency effort to assist communities and workers impacted by changes in the coal industry and power sector. Funding opportunities include $500,000 in implementation grants from ARC. The webinar will be held from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. EDT. Online registration is open. Legislative Update: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves FY 2016 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill Containing $105 Million for ARC
The legislation provides a total of $105 million for ARC's FY 2016 nonhighway programs, of which $25 million is allocated for the administration's proposed POWER+ Plan to help communities that have been adversely impacted by changes in the coal industry and power sector. Legislative update ARC to Offer POWER Implementation Grants to Assist Communities Affected by Changes in Coal Industry and Power Sector
The Commission will join EDA, ETA, and the SBA in offering a total of up to $35.5 million in funding through the administration's Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative launched in March. ARC grants of up to $75,000 each will help communities undertake coordinated economic and workforce development activities developed through a region-wide planning process. Applications for ARC funding are due July 10. More information 2015 SOAR Strategy Summit to be Held May 11
The Kentucky Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) initiative's 2015 strategy summit, "Creating Our Future: Regional Strategies for Growth and Development," will be held in Pikeville; agenda and registration information are available on the SOAR Web site. Webinar, FAQ Offer Guidance on Proposed "Bright Spots" Appalachian Health Conditions Study
A recording is now available of a May 7 webinar hosted by the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky on the proposed "Bright Spots" research project initiated in partnership with ARC and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to document disparities in health outcomes in Appalachia. Information from the webinar's Q&A period will also be incorporated into an updated FAQ available on the foundation's Web site. May 7 Webinar and New FAQ Offer Guidance on Proposed "Bright Spots" Appalachian Health Conditions Study
On Thursday, May 7, the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky will host a webinar on the proposed "Bright Spots" research project initiated in partnership with ARC and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to document disparities in health outcomes in Appalachia. The webinar will begin at 10:00 a.m. EDT and will provide a project overview and an opportunity for applicants to ask questions. To register, email Alexa Kerley at AKerley@healthy-ky.org. Applicants can also get more information on the project from a new FAQ available on the foundation's Web site. Legislative Update: House Approves FY 2016 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill Containing $95 Million for ARC
Approved on May 1, the legislation provides $95 million for ARC's FY 2016 nonhighway programs. This amount is $5 million more than the Commission's FY 2015 funding level. Action from the Senate appropriations committee is pending. Legislative update Legislative Update: House Appropriations Committee Approves FY 2016 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill
Approved on April 22, the legislation provides a total of $95 million for ARC's FY 2016 nonhighway programs. This amount is $5 million more than ARC's FY 2015 funding level. Legislative update RFP Issued for Three-Year "Bright Spots" Study on Appalachian Health Conditions
ARC, in collaboration with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky, invites proposals from qualified research teams and consultants to document and examine health conditions in Appalachia. The research project will document disparities in health outcomes, investigate the causes of local and regional disparities, and identify "Bright Spots," communities that have better-than-expected health outcomes given their economic status. The RFP is available on the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky's Web site. ARC Federal Co-Chair Earl Gohl Honored with Visionary Impact Award
Gohl was recognized by U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers on April 7 at the 2015 National Rx Drug Abuse Summit for his leadership in the effort to combat prescription substance abuse. Press release ARC Issues 2015 Data Overview of Appalachian Region
ARC has issued the Population Reference Bureau's 2015 data overview of the Appalachian Region, based on the 2009-2013 American Community Survey. This annually published report provides state- and county-level information on a range of data topics, including population, race and ethnicity, education, employment, income and poverty, health insurance coverage, and disability status. This year's report also includes a new "degree field" education topic. Read the report Registration Open for ARC Strategic Planning Listening Sessions
ARC will hold a series of listening sessions in the Appalachian Region in May and June as it develops a new strategic plan to guide the Commission's economic and community development efforts over the next five years. Sessions will be held in North Carolina, Mississippi, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. More information and registration are available at www.arc.gov/sessions. Federal Grant Opportunities Available to Support Development of Rural Health Networks
The Federal Office of Rural Health Policy will promote the development of rural health networks through two pilot programs targeting health-care training and care coordination. Application deadlines are March 31 and April 6. News brief March 30 Webinar Will Highlight Support Available through the Rural Energy for America Program
USDA Rural Development will host a free webinar on Monday, March 30, on how agricultural producers and rural small businesses can benefit from funding opportunities available through the Rural Energy for America Program for energy-efficiency improvements. The webinar will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EDT. Online registration is available. POWER Initiative to Assist Communities Affected by Changes in Coal Industry and Power Sector
ARC Executive Director Scott Hamilton joined senior administration officials and Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear in announcing the initiative, which will award competitive grants to help impacted communities diversify their economies, create jobs in new or existing industries, and provide skills training. News brief |