Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) is a new ARC initiative that aims to drive large-scale, regional economic transformation through multi-state collaborative projects across Appalachia. With the additional funding provided by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021 (also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law or BIL), ARC launched ARISE to strengthen Appalachian business and industry, and to grow and support the development of new opportunities across multiple states.
ARISE encourages the region’s 13 states to think beyond local and state lines and to spearhead initiatives that encourage states to work together as one, united Appalachia to advance ARC’s strategic investment priorities.
Multi-State Funding Now Available
Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) applicants must highlight partnerships across multiple states and provide a plan that showcases the economic impact of proposed project. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.
ARISE’s Impact in Appalachia
Since January 2023, ARC has invested $67.3 million in 19 projects impacting 12 Appalachian states through the ARISE Initiative. Together, these investments are projected to create or retain over 21,300 jobs, leverage more than $4.6 million in additional private investment into Appalachia’s economy, and prepare over 5,200 workers and students for opportunities in broadband development, workforce education, and green manufacturing across the region.
Investments in Action
ARISE Success Stories
Featured Resources
ARISE Webinars
ARC has hosted two virtual workshops about our newest grant initiative – Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE)! Learn more about the RFP, successful project examples, and more by watching both webinars.
Multi-State Collaboration Toolkit
This toolkit provides case studies on successful multi-state initiatives and offers more detailed information on building partnerships, operating grants, overcoming challenges, and other best practices. It is ARC’s hope that this toolkit will provide information helpful to building and sustaining successful ARISE projects.
