ARC POWER Initiative (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization)
ARC grants for coal-impacted Appalachian communities to diversify economies, create jobs, and revitalize regional industries.
About this program
ARC's POWER Initiative provides federal grants to projects that help Appalachian coal communities expand local and regional economies by creating high-quality jobs, attracting private investment, and providing workforce services. Since 2015, ARC has invested $485 million in 564 POWER projects across 365 counties, creating or retaining nearly 54,000 jobs, leveraging $1.85 billion in private investment, and preparing 170,000 workers for new opportunities in advanced manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, broadband, and tourism. FY 2026 applications require letters of intent due May 22, 2026, with full applications due July 8, 2026.
Eligibility
State and local government entities, Indian tribes, institutions of higher education, and nonprofit organizations in coal-impacted Appalachian counties; projects must demonstrate economic diversification, job creation, and workforce transition.
Requirements
- Located in coal-impacted Appalachian county
- Required letter of intent
- Demonstrated job creation/retention goals