Appalachian Regional Commission
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is an economic development partnership entity of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia.
![](https://www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/AppalachianRegionMap-700x664.jpg)
A Region of Great Opportunity
ARC invests in Appalachia’s economic future by providing grants, publishing research, and sponsoring learning experiences – all to help the Region’s communities seize their opportunities, address economic disparity and advance prosperity.
Research and Resources
![](https://www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/ARC_Johnstown_PA_55-700x467.jpg)
Appalachia Envisioned
ARC’s strategic plan, Appalachia Envisioned: A New Era of Opportunity, guides ARC’s work to innovate, partner, and invest in the Appalachian Region through 2026. Learn more about our investment goals, our guiding principles, our roles and more.
![](https://www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/306654053-700x467.jpeg)
J-1 Visa Waiver Program
ARC is committed to helping residents of Appalachia have access to quality, affordable health care. Accordingly, under certain conditions, ARC will consider recommending a waiver of the foreign residence requirement on behalf of physicians holding J-1 Visas in health professional shortage areas to address the region’s healthcare needs.
In The Region
![](https://www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG_5031-e1724415587348-700x633.jpg)
This Week
In the latest issue, we highlight our Appalachian Leadership Institute’s latest alumni session in Asheville, NC. Attendees discussed housing in Appalachia, learned about local Affrilachian history and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity.