Appalachian Regional Commission POWER Grant Initiative

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is soliciting applications for its Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative for Fiscal Year 2026. This initiative offers federal grant funding to support economic development projects in Appalachian communities that have been affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and related supply chain industries. The ARC prioritizes funding for projects that aim to create economic opportunities, diversify local economies, generate high-quality jobs, attract investment, and provide workforce services and skills training. Funding is available for both Implementation Grants, ranging from $400,000 to $2 million (or up to $2.5 million for broadband projects), and Planning Grants, up to $100,000. All projects must align with at least one ARC strategic investment goal, state/regional priorities, and POWER investment priorities. Applicants must demonstrate a clear understanding of the coal industry's impact on their target communities and outline how their proposed project will address these impacts. Projects must also include a cost-sharing or matching fund component, with rates determined by the economic designation of the served counties.