Trade association formed for data center, AI policies
The Arkansas Connected Communities Association (ARCC) announced Tuesday (June 16) its formal establishment as a 501(c)(6) trade association dedicated to advancing data center and artificial intelligence infrastructure policy in Arkansas.
According to a press release, the organization’s formation is rooted in the accelerating world of AI development, which has become a hot button topic at the local, state and national level.
“ARCC was formed because the urgency of this moment demands a focused, professional voice at the table,” the press release said. “Data centers and AI infrastructure are not abstract concepts — they are the physical backbone of the digital economy. They generate billions of dollars in capital investment, create high-quality jobs, dramatically expand local tax bases, and represent one of the most significant economic development opportunities Arkansas communities have ever seen. At the same time, as this industry grows, the policy environment surrounding it must be thoughtful, informed, and shaped by Arkansans — not by those who would rather see this investment go elsewhere. ARCC is committed to protecting ratepayers and the environment, ensuring that Arkansas seizes this economic opportunity in a way that is fiscally responsible and environmentally sound.”
“We formed ARCC because Arkansas deserves a credible, organized, and statewide voice that can work constructively with stakeholders, communities, utilities, and the industry to make sure we grow this sector in a way that benefits every Arkansan. That means we are firmly committed to protecting ratepayers and the environment — and equally committed to making sure Arkansas does not miss this once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow our economy. That is what ARCC will deliver,” said Aaron Pilkington, ARCC executive director. Pilkington is a state representative in the Arkansas legislature.
ARCC is structured to represent stakeholders who have a direct interest in responsible digital infrastructure development, including data center operators and end users, electric utilities, developers, construction and supply chain companies, and economic development organizations. The association’s membership tier structure includes those industry segments.
Pilkington said advisory committees are forming and public participation is welcome.
ARCC is actively forming its four standing advisory committees, which will serve as the primary mechanisms for broad stakeholder input and engagement across the state. These committees are:
Utility Advisory Board — Convening Arkansas electric utilities to address energy infrastructure planning, grid modernization, and sustainable power delivery for digital infrastructure growth — with a firm commitment to ratepayer protection throughout.
Construction Advisory Board — Representing the contractors, tradespeople, suppliers, and construction industry professionals who build and maintain data center facilities across Arkansas.
Community Development Advisory Board — Ensuring the voices of host communities — including local elected officials, economic development organizations, and residents — are meaningfully integrated into ARCC’s policy work. Two public member seats are reserved for representatives of communities directly hosting data center facilities.
AI Policy Advisory Board — Providing expert guidance on artificial intelligence policy, emerging technology governance, and the regulatory frameworks Arkansas must develop to responsibly harness the economic and strategic opportunities that AI infrastructure presents.
“ARCC exists to ensure that Arkansas’ policy environment actively supports — rather than inadvertently obstructs — this investment. The association will work collaboratively with the General Assembly, state agencies, utility regulators, local governments, and the business community to advance sound, evidence-based policy that keeps Arkansas competitive while ensuring growth is responsible, ratepayer-conscious, and environmentally informed,” the press release said.