Now Accepting ARC Pre-Applications

Now Accepting ARC Pre-Applications

The ARC Pre-Application Period is Now Open!

OVRDC is now accepting pre-applications for ARC funding. Please utilize the documents below to complete your pre-application. All completed documents should be submitted electronically to OVRDC ARC Program Manager Jessica Keeton at jkeeton@ovrdc.org. Jessica is also available if you have any questions or concerns at 740-947-2853.

Start with the strategic documents and the guidelines above which are step-by-step help for understanding priority projects, instructions, eligibility, submission deadlines, and more.

Funding priorities include:

  • Economic Opportunities – invest in entrepreneurial and business development strategies that strengthen Appalachia’s economy.
  • Ready Workforce – increase the education, knowledge, skills and health of residents to work and succeed in Appalachia.
  • Critical infrastructure – invest in critical infrastructure especially broadband, transportation, including the Appalachian Development Highway System, and water/wastewater systems.
  • Natural and Cultural Assets – strengthen Appalachia’s community and economic development potential by leveraging the Region’s natural and cultural heritage assets.
  • Leadership and Community Capacity – Build the capacity and skills of current and next-generation leaders and organizations to innovate, collaborate, and advance community and economic development.

For more information visit ARC www.arc.gov or OVRDC www.ovrdc.org/ARC.

Each year ARC provides funding for several hundred projects in the Appalachian Region in a wide range of program areas:

  • Community Infrastructure
  • Education and Training
  • Health
  • Transportation and Highways
  • Distressed Counties
  • Asset-based Development
  • Tourism Development
  • Entrepreneurship and Business Development
  • Substance Use Disorder Crisis Recovery

Eligible applicants for ARC funding include political subdivisions (county, city, village), educational institutions (school district and vocational school districts, colleges and universities), public institutions (port authorities, libraries), and non-profit organizations (community improvement corporations, social service agencies).

 

 

Additional ARC Funding:  The POWER Program for Coal-Impacted Communities

Apply Now! 

The ARC POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) Initiative targets federal resources to help communities and regions that have been affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries due to the changing economics of America’s energy production. For FY22, $55 M in funding is available, and up to a third of this funding is set aside for broadband deployment projects.

The POWER Initiative supports efforts to create a more vibrant economic future for coal-impacted communities by cultivating economic diversity, enhancing job training and re-employment opportunities, creating jobs in existing or new industries, and attracting new sources of investment.

  • A letter of intent (LOI) is now required to apply for POWER funding. You must submit your letter in .pdf format directly to ARC at POWER@arc.gov. The letter will then be forwarded to the State Program Manager.

Timeline:

  • February 15- Application portal opens.
  • March 5, 2021- LOI must be submitted by 5 p.m. in .pdf format to POWER@arc.gov.
  • April 16- Applications* due by 5:00 p.m. *New application limit of 100 pages.

The ARC POWER Program Webinar Series Available Now to Help with Building Stronger Applications is archived online. Watch now!

Other ARC Programs and Funding Available Now:

 

The Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy is a great summer learning experience for rising high school seniors from across Appalachia. This free program is designed to help young entrepreneurial thinkers cultivate creativity, sharpen biz acumen and develop the skills needed to bring ideas to life! Submit to the Appalachian Regional Commission web page and apply by March 1, 2021 at www.arc.gov/AEA

This year, up to 26 participants will meet in two phases – one virtual and one in-person. Phase 1, which will run from June 14-25, 2021, will provide participants with a virtual orientation retreat that includes an introduction to curriculum components, ideation and team formation, and teambuilding. Phase 2, which will be held from July 12-30, 2021, includes industry tours, mentorship and coaching, a Design Thinking workshop, and concludes with an elevator pitch event. While Phase 2 is currently scheduled to be held in-person in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the AEA team is monitoring the COVID-19 situation and is prepared to make any necessary changes to the program to ensure our participants remain safe and get the most out of being in the program.

What’s Included:

  • Transportation to and from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • Full room and board
  • Extracurricular activities
  • A stipend

 

Summer STEM Project for Students & Teachers

Students and teachers don’t forget to apply for the Appalachian Regional Commission/ Oak Ridge National Laboratory 2021 summer STEM program! Submit an application by March 1, 2021, to apply for this great opportunity. Learn more and apply HERE.

RFP for Higher Education Appalachian Teaching Project 

Calling all colleges and universities! ARC’s Appalachian Teaching Project is seeking up to 16 participants for the 2021 program. The project encourages students to earn course credit while conducting research to improve their communities and contribute to local economic development. Institution proposals are due by April 9, 2021.

Read the details and full RFP here.