In the Region - February 19, 2026 | Volume 11, Issue 7

Written By Brian Williamson

ARC NEWS

Due Feb 27: Present at ARC Conference in Starkville, MS

Showcase your transformative economic development work at ARC's 2026 Annual Conference in Starkville, Mississippi, June 2–4. ☀️

Proposals for programming at Appalachia Builds: Breaking New Ground for Economic Growth are due February 27!

Submit a programming proposal now. ✅

March 24 & 26: See You in Georgia or New York? 🧳

Thank you to everyone who has registered to join us at our 2026 Regional Workshops in Cartersville, Georgia (March 24), and Ithaca, New York (March 26). Haven't registered yet? There's still time!

Attendees will gain insights from ARC staff, partners and grantees, and learn about best practices for ARC projects. This is a great opportunity to get support in taking your current or future project to the next level.

Register now! 🤝

Manage Your Grants with Pathways 🖥️

After you sign up for an account with our new grant management system, Pathways, you may have questions! Our staff are here to help at our Pathways virtual office hours, happening from February 25 to April 29.

If you're planning to apply for upcoming ARC funding opportunities but haven't registered for Pathways yet, make sure you sign up for an account soon. 💡 It's a key step to the funding application process!

COMMUNITY

Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin spoke at the Economic Development Administration's Regional Commission meeting in Charleston, West Virginia. Representatives from several of United States' 10 commissions shared insights from their work strengthening regional economies. 💪

Advanced composite access mat manufacturer Spartan Composites is investing $49M to open operationsat Turner Industrial Park in Saltillo, Mississippi. In 2024, $800K in ARC funds supported access road improvements to the site, which is also home to five existing businesses. 📈

EVENTS

Pathways Office Hours
February 25–April 29, 2026; virtual

2026 ARC Regional Workshop
March 24, 2026; Cartersville, Georgia

2026 ARC Regional Workshop
March 26, 2026; Ithaca, New York

2026 ARC Annual Conference, Appalachia Builds: Breaking New Ground for Economic Growth
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 - February 12, 2026 | Volume 11, Issue 6