Based in Washington, DC, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is an economic development agency that collaborates with federal, state, and local governments. Through its area development program, ARC funds around 450 projects annually across the 13-state Appalachian Region, aiming to enhance the region's economic condition. Established by Congress in 1965, ARC is governed by the 13 Appalachian state governors and a federal co-chair appointed by the president. Local involvement is facilitated through multi-county local development districts, while the commission's operations are overseen by an executive director.