Since 2005, The Center for Rural Development’s Developing and Implementing Community Strategies Program (Flex-E Grant) has presented more than $750,000 in Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) federal funding support to communities across Southern and Eastern Kentucky.

The funds, awarded in the form of ARC Flex-E Grants, can be used for projects which might include but are not limited to the successful creation of a strategic plan, implementation of a project from an existing strategic plan, training for local leaders or consultant services to assess feasibility or support development of a project. All projects must be completed within a six-month period.

Counties eligible to apply for ARC funding support through The Center include: Bath, Bell, Breathitt, Carter, Casey, Clay, Clinton, Cumberland, Elliott, Estill, Fleming, Floyd, Harlan, Hart, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lewis, Lincoln, Magoffin, Martin, McCreary, Menifee, Metcalfe, Monroe, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Robertson, Rockcastle, Rowan, Russell, Wayne, Whitley, and Wolfe. Cities within those counties may also apply.