In the Region - December 4, 2025 | Volume 10, Issue 46
ARC NEWS
$12.6M+ Invested to Strengthen Local Economies
Today, we awarded over $12.6M to 80 projects designed to meet local economic development needs across 12 Appalachian states.
More than $11.6M was awarded to 47 projects through READY Grants to Grow, a funding opportunity that helps Appalachian organizations build the skills, knowledge and resources needed to strengthen their local economies — now and into the future.
We also awarded over $1M to 23 community foundations and 10 local governments for projects that will optimize operations and build resources to better address their communities’ unique economic development needs. The local government and community foundation grant recipients successfully completed virtual READY training courses prior to applying for and receiving funding.
💪 Learn more about ARC’s grants and opportunities.
COMMUNITY
Northwest Mississippi Community College will use more than $1.2M in ARC funds to enhance its Concourse welding program in Batesville. 🧑🏭 Concourse aims to support new manufacturers and job seekers through internships and industry-driven curriculum.
Aliceville, Alabama, will use $34K in ARC funds to replace 700 feet of aging water lines along Broad Street. The upgrades will be completed ahead of a separate scheduled resurfacing project funded through Rebuild Alabama. ⚒️
In Jefferson County, Ohio, ARC funds are supporting water infrastructure improvements, including rehabbing aging lines and a pump station. Once completed, the new system will help alleviate the area's emergency water service concerns. 🛁
AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITY
ARISE Pre-Applications Due Friday 🌄
Pre-applications for funding through the Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) are due tomorrow, December 5, 2025! ⏲️
ARISE grants drive large-scale, regional economic transformation through collaborative projects that strengthen Appalachia’s communities and industries.
Check our application resources page to learn more on how to apply.
APPALACHIA IN THE NEWS
Northern Appalachia
Pennsylvania invests $6.2M to improve water safety and sewage systems in five Appalachian counties, DCED
Central Appalachia
Bell County certified as Recovery Ready Community, Middlesboro News
Ky. Chamber Foundation to advance workforce recovery solutions though Connect Appalachia project, Kentucky Today
Southern Appalachia
