Ohio’s Appalachian students and STEM teachers can apply now for two incredible summer experiences through the Appalachian Regional Commission — completely FREE, including travel, lodging, and meals! These highly competitive, hands-on academies bring students and educators from across Appalachia together for real-world learning, career exploration, and unforgettable summer experiences. Program details are listed below:
Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy
Location: Appalachian State University, Boone, NC
Dates: July 11–24, 2026
Who: High school students
Develop, refine, and pitch your own business ideas to real entrepreneurs
Build leadership, teamwork, and innovation skills
End the program with a live pitch competition
Application Deadline: December 3, 2025
Learn More & Apply
Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge
Location: Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Dates: July 11-17, 2026 (Session 1) and July 18-24, 2026 (Session 2)
Who: Middle & high school students, plus high school STEM teachers
Work with leading scientists on hands-on research projects
Teachers partner with practitioners to develop innovative STEM curriculum
Explore real-world careers in science, engineering, and technology
Application Deadline: December 3, 2025
Learn More & Apply
What’s Included (FREE!)
- Round-trip travel
- Lodging & meals
- All program materials
- Extracurricular and enrichment activities
- Access to mentors and career professionals
Participants are encouraged to bring some extra money for incidental expenses or souvenirs if desired.
Application Deadline for both programs: December 3, 2025
Ohio Appalachian schools are encouraged to share this opportunity with eligible students and teachers.
View the video from previous years’ experience: https://vimeo.com/846686294
For more information about these initiatives contact ARC via email at academies@arc.gov or Kathy Zook at kzook@eastgatecog.org