In the Region - April 23, 2026 | Volume 11, Issue 16

Written By Brian Williamson

ARC NEWS

Applications Open! Funding for Recovery Ecosystems

Applications are open now for funding through our Investments Supporting Partnerships in Recovery Ecosystems (INSPIRE) Initiative! 🌟 

INSPIRE projects address the economic impacts of substance use disorder (SUD) through job training, peer counseling, support services, partnerships and other activities that remove employment barriers and boost long-term recovery.

Interested in applying for INSPIRE 2026? Head to our application information page to: 

💻 Watch the pre-application webinar recording
🙋‍♀️ Register for a live Q&A session with ARC staff on April 29 
📋 Register for our grant management system by May 5 
📝 Submit your Letter of Intent to apply by May 12 
✔️ Apply by June 15

COMMUNITY

Five ARC-funded projects are set to spur economic development across Western Maryland. 🍂 $685K in investment will support projects like wastewater system upgrades and programs at Allegany College of MD that expand access to capital for rural entrepreneurs.
 
Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin joined INSPIRE grantee New Vision in Philippi, West Virginia, for the Next Step Summit and to attend a ceremonial groundbreaking at one of its tiny home communities for people leaving foster care and entering the workforce. 🏡

The University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine will use $400K in ARC funds to expand and modernize its clinical simulation lab, increasing students’ access to the high-quality healthcare equipment used in real-world scenarios.🧑‍⚕️

AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITY

Seeking Researchers for Appalachian Twin Counties Study

Research consultants can submit proposals now for a project to estimate the differences in economic outcomes between Appalachian and similar non-Appalachian counties over time, and to assess the extent to which those differences are associated with ARC’s investments.    

The selected contractor will be required to deliver a final report, executive summary, and master data and mapping files. Proposals are due June 16, 2026, 5:00 p.m. ET. Read the RFP.

APPALACHIA IN THE NEWS

Northern Appalachia

Central Appalachia

Southern Appalachia

Learn about Appalachia’s subregions.

EVENTS

Pathways Office Hours
April 29, 2026; virtual

2026 ARC Annual Conference, Appalachia Builds: Breaking New Ground for Economic Growth ➡️ Join the waitlist!
June 2–4, 2026; Starkville, Mississippi

Brian Williamson

Creative and strategic Website & Graphic Designer with 15+ years of experience in design,
branding, and marketing leadership. Proven track record in team management, visual
storytelling, and building cohesive brand identities across print and digital platforms. Adept at
developing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, drive sales, and elevate user
experiences.

https://www.limegroupllc.com/
Next

In the Region - April 16, 2026 | Volume 11, Issue 15