Financial assistance is in the form of a repayable cooperative agreement and includes a repayment portion that recognises the investment risk taken by the AARC Center. Evaluation of project proposals, by three outside reviewers and the AARC staff, considers the adequacy of the business plan, the technical feasibility of the proposal, the project's potential to generate jobs in rural America, as well as environmental and conservation aspects. Following a successful review, the proposal is referred to the AARC Center's Board of Directors for final evaluation. Site visits may occur and oral presentations may be required from applicants. The AARC Board makes the final decision as to who receives assistance and the extent of the assistance.
Proprietary information is protected during the review and evaluation process.
In addition, the legislation establishing the AARC program specifically exempts the Center from the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. Procedures are also in place to prevent conflicts of interest occurring. The title to any intellectual property developed under a joint agreement with the AARC Center remains with the applicant. The agreements provide for repayments by successful projects. This payback provision is novel and innovative for the US government.