OVRDC Announces FY28 ARC Area Development Letter of Intent and Pre-Application Schedule

The Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission (OVRDC) is announcing the availability of the Fiscal Year 2028 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Area Development Program Letter of Intent (LOI) and the FY28 Area Development funding schedule.

The LOI is the first step for communities and eligible organizations interested in pursuing ARC Area Development funding. Applicants must submit a separate LOI for each project they intend to propose for ARC funding.

OVRDC encourages prospective applicants to submit their LOIs as early as possible. Early submission gives OVRDC staff an opportunity to review proposed projects, provide feedback, and work with applicants to identify potential issues before the formal application process begins. The LOI process also allows applicants to discuss project eligibility, funding needs, and alignment with ARC and regional development priorities with OVRDC staff.

FY28 LOIs are due by close of business on December 31, 2026.

The FY28 Area Development schedule outlines the major milestones in the application and review process, from the Letter of Intent through the submission, review, and recommendation of final applications. Applicants are encouraged to review the schedule carefully and plan accordingly.

ARC’s Area Development Program supports locally driven projects that advance economic and community development throughout Appalachia. Funding can support projects involving critical infrastructure, business and workforce development, broadband, education, healthcare, and other initiatives that strengthen the region’s economy and quality of life.

Coordinating ARC and OPWC Funding

Communities considering Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) funding as part of an overall project should also be aware of the FY28 OPWC Round 41 application timeline. Applications for Round 41 are due to county subcommittees by October 2, 2026, according to each county’s established closing time.

Communities planning to use both ARC and OPWC funding for a project are encouraged to begin coordinating with OVRDC staff as early as possible. Early coordination can help ensure that project timelines, funding sources, and application requirements are appropriately aligned.

For questions regarding OPWC funding, contact Kim Reynolds at kreynolds@ovrdc.org.

For questions regarding ARC funding or the FY28 Letter of Intent, contact Eli Cole at ecole@ovrdc.org or Kerri Richardson at krichardson@ovrdc.org.

The FY28 ARC Letter of Intent, Area Development schedule, application materials, and additional information are available on OVRDC’s How to Apply for ARC Federal and State Funds webpage.

Applicants are encouraged to review the available materials and contact OVRDC staff early in the process to discuss their proposed projects and determine the appropriate next steps