Columbus, Ohio – Ohio is investing more than $5 million to strengthen workforce development efforts and help connect residents with career opportunities in some of the state’s most in-demand industries.
Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced that 22 workforce partnerships across Ohio will receive a combined $5,065,368.46 through the Industry Sector Partnership (ISP) Grant Program.
State officials said the funding is intended to help employers, educators, workforce organizations, and community leaders work together to address labor shortages and prepare more Ohioans for successful careers.
The partnerships receiving funding focus on critical sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, transportation, insurance, construction, and skilled trades.
Funding Aims To Strengthen Workforce Pipelines
According to state leaders, the Industry Sector Partnership program is designed to bring key stakeholders together to identify workforce challenges and develop solutions tailored to regional economic needs.
The grants support both newly formed partnerships and existing collaborations that are already working to build stronger talent pipelines throughout Ohio.
Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of maintaining a skilled workforce to support continued economic growth.
“A strong economy starts with a strong workforce,” said Governor DeWine. “These partnerships are helping Ohioans connect with new career opportunities while ensuring employers have the talent they need to grow and succeed.”
Lt. Governor Jim Tressel said the partnerships demonstrate the value of collaboration among businesses, educators, and workforce development professionals.
“Great things happen when people come together, and Industry Sector Partnerships bring employers, educators, workforce leaders, and more to the same table to help Ohioans prepare for meaningful careers,” said Lt. Governor Jim Tressel. “We want it to be easier for Ohioans to discover opportunities, build valuable skills, and find a place where they can make a difference, and programs like this do that.”
Long-Term Investment In Ohio Workers
The latest round of funding continues a broader effort that has been underway for several years.
Since 2019, Ohio has invested $22.7 million in 121 Industry Sector Partnerships involving 77 unique organizations throughout the state.
Officials say these partnerships have helped connect employers with potential workers while creating educational and training opportunities designed to meet the needs of rapidly changing industries.
Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik said the partnerships are creating benefits for both businesses and workers.
“When businesses, educators, and community organizations work together, communities grow stronger,” said Director Mihalik. “Industry Sector Partnerships are helping Ohioans gain the skills employers are looking for while strengthening workforce pipelines in industries that are critical to Ohio’s economy. That collaboration is creating long-term opportunities for employees and employers alike.”
The grant program also complements broader workforce initiatives launched by the state.
Among those efforts is WorkOhio, an initiative announced by Lt. Governor Tressel that seeks to connect job seekers with employment opportunities in their local areas. The program provides personalized assistance from regional job experts and offers additional resources to help Ohioans identify careers that match their interests and skills.
State leaders said the newest round of grants reflects Ohio’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and economic growth. By investing in partnerships that unite employers, schools, training providers, and community organizations, officials hope to create stronger career pathways while ensuring businesses have access to the skilled workers they need to remain competitive and continue expanding across the state.
