Growth Partnership: "Don't leave money on the table"

Several major state incentive deadlines for grants are approaching and the Huron County Growth Partnership is encouraging local employers to review two available programs that could bring significant training and recruitment dollars into the county. According to a news release, the partnership helped secure more than $3.1 million in incentives for business development in 2025. As the year winds down, the organization is urging companies to "get their fair share" of the resources still available. The Huron County Growth Partnership serves as the county's economic development arm and business support network, according the group's webpage. The organization also regularly hosts business-led forums, recognition programs and information sessions about state-led economic tools. JobsOhio Relocation Incentive One of the highlighted opportunities is the JobsOhio Relocation Incentive Program, which is designed to help companies bring skilled workers into Ohio. The program offers $15,000 per relocated employee, up to $225,000 per employer. Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. To qualify, companies must: • Be an Ohio-based employer in one of JobsOhio's targeted industries.• Hire a full-time STEM or technical employee (1099 contractors are not eligible).• Provide relocation numbers for the previous three calendar years to establish a baseline.• Priority occupations include advanced manufacturing, aerospace and aviation, automotive, energy, financial services, food and agribusiness, healthcare, logistics and distribution, military and federal, and technology, according to the release. TechCred: Training money for current employees The release also highlights the TechCred program, operated by the Ohio Department of Development, which reimburses employers for short-term technology and digital-skills training. Key details include: • Up to $2,000 per credential• Up to $30,000 per employer per application period• Applications are competitively reviewed, not first-come, first-served Employer requirements: • Must be registered with the Ohio Secretary of State• Must have a physical, nonresidential address• Must use W-2 employees only• In-house training providers cannot receive reimbursement for their own staff Credential requirements: • Must be industry-recognized• Must focus on digital or STEM technical skills• Must be completed in under 12 months and remain under 30 credit hours or 900 clock hours Huron County businesses have already received $282,164 in TechCred funding this year, supporting training for 299 employees, according to the release. Deadline approaching The final TechCred application period for 2025 closes Dec. 1 at 3 p.m. The partnership is encouraging local companies to review eligibility and consider applying before the deadline. More information about business incentives and county resources is available at huroncountyohio.com.