To ensure that funds are used effectively and efficiently, and to strengthen local participation, ARC works with the states to support a network of multicounty planning and development organizations, or local development districts (LDDs), throughout the Region. The 73 LDDs cover all 420 counties in the ARC program.

The LDDs' most important role is to identify priority needs of local communities. Based on these needs, the LDDs work with their board members and other local citizens to develop plans for their communities' economic development, to target and meet the most pressing needs, and to build community unity and leadership.

Map of Local Development Districts in the Appalachian Region

The Development District Association of Appalachia