A study identified 100 sub-regional concentrations of technology-related employment, research and development, and applied innovation within and immediately adjacent to the 406-county service area of the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). Among the findings are that Appalachia's technology sector is comparatively small but expanding, with most gains occurring in moderately technology-intensive sectors. The presence of industrial machinery, chemicals/plastics, and motor vehicles is more extensive in rural counties than information technology, communication services, and software. There is more high-tech activity in the northern and southern thirds of Appalachia, with activity in the central region very sparse. Appalachian metro areas have significantly fewer scientists, engineers, and technicians than the U.S. as a whole. There are six major research universities in Appalachia--their primary strengths are engineering and physical sciences, followed by life sciences. Industrial machinery is the most common technology focus in the area. There are many state-funded technology programs in the region, but few focus on the areas projected to grow in the next decade--information technology and biotechnology. Degree awards in computer and communications sciences by 2-year colleges are below the national average. Higher education institutions with an emphasis in technology are comparatively few in central Appalachia. Over half of the technology clusters are located in centers outside the region, meaning that Appalachia's high-tech prospects are heavily dependent on spillover effects from neighboring cities. Implications for policy are discussed. Fourteen appendices present lists related to classification and spatial concentrations. (Contains 58 references and 43 maps and figures.) (TD)