The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a vital federal and state partnership dedicated to fostering economic development across 423 counties in the Appalachian Region. With a mission centered on innovation, partnership, and investment, ARC seeks to enhance community capacity and promote economic growth in Appalachia, striving for socioeconomic parity with the rest of the nation. The organization engages in strategic planning, research, and evaluation initiatives to assess and address the region's socioeconomic conditions, leveraging data to inform policy and programmatic investments. Through its commitment to collaboration and innovation, ARC plays a pivotal role in shaping development strategies and fostering partnerships that drive meaningful and impactful change throughout the region.