POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) is a congressionally funded initiative that targets federal resources to help communities and regions that have been affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries due to the changing economics of America’s energy production.
he Request for Proposals for POWER 2019 is now available. ARC will begin accepting applications for funding on February 1, 2019, and are due April 10, 2019, 5::00pm (EDT). Approximately $45 million will be awarded through a competitive granting process. Funding proposals are to be submitted via the 2019 POWER Initiative Application Portal, and are due April 10, 2019, 5:00 pm (EDT).
In Fiscal Year 2019, ARC’s POWER Initiative will continue focusing on investments that are regional, strategic, transformational, and maximize economic revitalization in Appalachia’s coal-impacted communities. POWER investment priorities include:
Building a competitive workforce;
Enhancing access to and use of broadband services;
Fostering entrepreneurial activities; and
Developing industry clusters in communities; and
Strengthening substance abuse response.
Eligible funding applicants include:
Local development districts;
Indian Tribes or a consortium of Indian Tribes;
States, counties, cities, or other political subdivision of a state, including a special purpose unit of a state or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions;
Institutions of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education; and
Public or private nonprofit organizations or associations.
Before submitting a funding proposal, potential applicants must contact the appropriate ARC state program manager for specific guidance pertaining to the eligible use of POWER funds in their state.
More information can be located on ARC’s website by visiting: https://www.arc.gov/funding/power.asp