Kentucky Awarded Grant for Appalachian Opportunity Zone Initiative

2 Dec 2019


Program aims to spur investment in distressed counties

The commonwealth has been named the recipient of a $1.2 million federal grant to establish the Appalachian Opportunity Zone Initiative to identify, develop and market projects in Opportunity Zones across 54 counties within the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) region, 37 of which are classified as distressed areas.

“The Appalachian Opportunity Zone Initiative offers a pointed strategy to encourage investment in areas of the commonwealth that need it most,” Gov. Matt Bevin said. “The region boasts incredible untapped economic opportunities, and we’re committed to leveraging every resource to promote those potential projects. This initiative promises to continue our transformative growth in Eastern Kentucky, and we look forward to seeing the exciting results."