2022 Strategic Initiative: Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are priorities for JobsOhio — making a commitment to fostering an inclusive economy where every Ohioan, regardless of their background, can participate and prosper.
Fostering Inclusive Economic Development Growth
JobsOhio is working to support economic growth opportunities for underrepresented geographies and populations, with a goal of adding up to 6,000 new jobs over five years.
2022 RESULTS
- Completed more than 95 projects
- Assisted the Lightship Foundation in bringing Black Tech Week to Ohio
- Supported five Vibrant Community projects
2023 GOALS
- Attract a Minority Depository Institution to Ohio
- Draw entrepreneurial support for small and minority-owned businesses
- Add 500 to 1,000 new jobs toward the five-year goal through Inclusion grants, Vibrant Community Program grants, and inclusive project planning services
Enhancing Support for Businesses Owned by Underrepresented Populations
The JobsOhio Inclusion Grant provides financial support for businesses in eligible communities and/or owned by underrepresented populations like minorities, women, veterans, and people with disabilities across the state.
Grant decisions are based on several project factors, including but not limited to company location, company ownership, jobs created and/or retained, and project fixed asset investment. Support is intended for small to medium-sized companies with annual revenues of up to $25 million.
2022 RESULTS
- Assisted 82 companies owned by minorities, women, veterans, or people with disabilities
Expanding Broadband Access Statewide
JobsOhio supports Ohio’s Statewide Broadband Strategy to expand and enhance high-speed fixed wireless to make access to service available to all Ohioans.
2022 RESULTS
- Launched Digital Access Ohio
- Began initial cluster network buildout in rural Northeast Ohio
2023 GOALS
- Continue Project Equalizer of Digital Access Ohio to enable up to 200 fixed wireless sites in the next five years