Gov. Mike DeWine, along with Lt. Gov. Jon Husted and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik have announced a second round of funding for the Appalachian Grant Program is now available for the region.

According to the Governor's office, about $430 million in grants will be available for projects aimed at revitalizing downtowns, improve quality of life and rebuild local economies.

"Ohio's Appalachian region has so much to offer - from a willing workforce to historic downtowns and breathtaking natural wonders,"  DeWine said. "Funding from this program will help positively transform Appalachia and impact those living there for generations to come."

In total, $500 million has been dedicated to the Appalachian Community Grant program, which was launched in 2022. 

In the first round, $30 million went toward planning and $50 million went to development grants for projects impacting communities in counties like Mahoning and Columbiana.

"This targeted investment will help bring transformative change to our Appalachian communities," Husted said. "Improvements to downtown areas, along with enhancing the local education and workforce systems, will help prepare the entire region for a successful future."

Applications and program guidelines are available her.