The Appalachian Regional Commission has a key role in helping the people of Appalachia build a better future: creating jobs, building infrastructure to foster business and community growth and to connect the Region with national and international markets, and developing an educated, healthy workforce prepared to participate fully in the global economy.

Appalachia has made significant progress in addressing its historical challenges, but ARC’s vision for the Region has not yet been achieved. In fiscal year 2010, more than 80 counties were still classified as economically distressed. Increased global competition and technological change have resulted in job losses and restructuring in many key Appalachian industries. Because of its rugged terrain and high proportion of rural residents, Appalachia is at risk of falling behind in the implementation and use of modern technology and telecommunications, necessary components of competitiveness in today’s economy.