The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) offers the READY Nonprofits program as part of its broader READY Appalachia initiative, designed to support the capacity-building needs of Appalachian nonprofits. This program targets mission-driven organizations across the Appalachian region that are dedicated to addressing local community challenges. Recognizing that many of these nonprofits face limitations in resources and operational capabilities, READY Nonprofits provides structured training to help strengthen their foundational skills in areas crucial to organizational growth and sustainability.

Training through READY Nonprofits is offered at no cost to participants, covering essential topics such as federal grant application and management, financial management, fundraising, employee recruitment and retention, marketing, and general operations. This training aims to equip nonprofit leaders with the necessary skills to enhance their organizations’ effectiveness and ability to secure and manage funds.

Upon successful completion of the training, participants become eligible to apply for up to $25,000 in funding. This funding, which does not require matching funds, can be used to implement internal capacity-building projects that address specific organizational needs identified during training. The goal of this funding opportunity is to support long-term improvements within participating nonprofits, enabling them to better serve the Appalachian communities they support.

The READY Nonprofits program has already awarded over $1.6 million to 68 nonprofits across 12 states in the Appalachian region as of March 2024. These grants have focused on enhancing the capacity of organizations that work in high-need areas, particularly those in distressed areas and census tracts, coal and power plant communities identified by the Interagency Working Group, Rural Partners Network Community Networks, and those serving historically underserved and marginalized populations.

READY Nonprofits plans to reopen its application process later in 2024 for the next round of training and funding. Nonprofits interested in participating are encouraged to monitor the ARC’s announcements for upcoming application dates. The program exemplifies ARC’s commitment to empowering Appalachian communities by building strong, resilient nonprofit organizations that can effectively respond to local needs and promote regional development.