Deadline to apply is May 12, 2025
FRANKFORT, KY. (Feb. 28, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear encouraged Appalachian communities to apply for this year’s Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization (AMLER) grant funding that has fueled economic and community development in Eastern Kentucky for almost a decade.
The Kentucky Division of Abandoned Mine Lands is accepting applications through May 12, 2025, in anticipation of receiving 2025 AMLER grant funding. On average, Kentucky receives about $25 million each year through the AMLER program.
“These grants build on the strength, resilience and resourcefulness of our Appalachian communities by encouraging innovative projects that create good jobs and support a secure economic future for our families,” Gov. Beshear said. “The AMLER program is an example of the kind of government our people need and deserve. One where federal, state and local communities work together for a better Kentucky.”
Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman said the program is an investment in the region’s unlimited potential: “We’re honored to be part of this process, to support new opportunity in these communities. These grants are a small investment compared to the contributions our coal-mining families have made in powering our state and nation.”
U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) established the AMLER program in 2016 to help coal-producing states revitalize in the midst of the downturn of the coal industry.
Over the last eight years, nearly $230 million has been awarded for projects in Eastern Kentucky counties. Once completed, these projects are expected to generate more than 3,000 new jobs for the region.
Each application must include details of the project’s economic benefit along with a connection to pre-law coal mining (mining that was completed prior to May 18, 1982).
Division staff will be available to discuss grant proposals with potential applicants at the Abandoned Mine Lands regional offices on the following dates:
- March 4 at 101 Bulldog Lane, Hazard;
- March 11 at 85 State Police Road, London; and
- March 18 at 3140 South Lake Drive, Suite 6, Prestonsburg.
Appointments can be scheduled here. Applicants can find a self-paced online workshop and video tutorial here.
Previous successful grant applications include industrial development, workforce training, infrastructure improvements, tourism, agriculture, agritech and community wellness projects.
At the SOAR Summit in October, Gov. Beshear and Congressman Rogers (KY-05), announced the 2024 awardees, who received more than $30 million in AMLER grants to support local projects. A full list of projects selected can be found here.