January 31, 2025, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Development: (COLUMBUS, Ohio) — The Ohio Department of Development today announced state support of more than $33 million in tax credits through two tax credit programs aimed at developing a strong film industry in Ohio.  

Findlay was awarded the number one ranking for 2023, marking the tenth year in a row that they've received the honor. The full list of micropolitan cities considered in the list is over 500, and they are graded based on criteria like new construction, jobs created, or capital investments. The mayors of each city being recognized participated in a panel to explain their strategies for continued economic growth. 

Allen County, OH (WLIO) - Business owners, local elected officials, and members of the community gathered to celebrate a great year for busine…

Lydia Mihalik learned more about day-to-day operations and what employees receive working at Buckeye Rubber Products. Business leaders say that it was important to share what they do not only for the state of Ohio but for nationwide and overseas clients as well.

Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik was in Lima to connect with a number of small businesses, and the same topic of concern was brought up... workforce development. The State of Ohio has put an emphasis on helping small businesses according to Mihalik — all in an effort to sustain growth in local communities.

ODOD Director Lydia Mihalik explains, “Communities don’t necessarily have the funds to get moving. The states coming in being a great partner helping with assessments and or clean up dollars to really get them over the finish line.”

April 1 is Census Day and by now everyone should have received info at their respective homes to fill out the form.

Census Day means people should complete the survey according to where they live today. A state official said Ohio has a response rate so far of 36 percent. While we follow the governor's stay-at-home orders for COVID-19, it's a perfect time to fill your census out by phone, mail or online. The state official said the pandemic shows us the importance of public safety and health. And relief will come based on our population count. She said the survey isn't meant to be invasive, it only collects basic info.

The program is called TechCred. Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said its a way to close a workforce gap by upscaling the skills employees have.

Through this program, the state will reimburse businesses to get employees or incoming employees certified in a technology-focused skill of need.

Husted spoke to the chamber of commerce detailing what the program will look like. Employers identify a needed skill and employees that may need it. There’s 150 credentialed skills to choose from. They apply online and enroll in a training area, like a nearby school, to take the course in less than a year. Once they give the state verification of completion, the business will be reimbursed up to $2,000 per employee training.