Building Regional Communities​

The National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) serves as the national voice for regions by advocating for regional cooperation as the most effective way to address a variety of community planning and development opportunities and issues.

Advocacy

NARC is the national voice of regional planning organizations, advocating for regional priorities in federal policy. NARC staff work through a committee-guided and local elected official board-driven structure in developing and executing national legislative policies.

Resources

NARC provides its members valuable information and research on key national policy issues, federal policy developments, and best practices. NARC conducts training sessions, conferences, workshops and webinars for members.

Conferences

Regional leaders come together during NARC conferences to share best practices and attend informative sessions on legislative and regulatory issues. Conference speakers include experts from the public and private sector, lawmakers, and individuals from universities and non-profit organizations.

NARC Blogs and Resources

A Regional Look at Federal Housing Legislation in Congress

The Senate’s Road to Housing Act and House of Representatives’ Housing for the 21st Century Act Aim to Increase Housing Supply Communities across the country continue to face significant challenges in providing safe, attainable, and stable housing options for residents. Rapidly rising home prices, increasing rental costs, limited supply, and sustained demand have placed significant pressure on housing markets

A Year in Review – NARC in 2025

As the National Association of Regional Councils enters 2026, we are excitedly preparing for our 60th Annual Conference in Tulsa in June. I am proud to reflect on another year of growth and impact in 2025. From conferences and fly-ins to advocacy and grants, NARC has reinvigorated the voice of regional councils in the nation’s capital. Our work continues to highlight the contributions our member organizations make in regions across America.  Membership

Lessons from the Field: Economic Development District Designation 

So You Want To Be an EDD? An Economic Development District (EDD) designation can be a great way to access federal funding opportunities and align your region’s economic development efforts. However, becoming an EDD presents unique challenges that require time, strong relationships, and the right organizational structure to overcome. NARC staff interviewed economic development planners across the country to understand the pros


Interested in Joining NARC?