Ohio’s Relocation Incentive boosts STEM and technical hiring

Ohio’s economy continues to grow on the strength of its STEM and technical talent, but attracting a steady workforce remains a challenge for employers across the country. To address this need, JobsOhio has introduced the Relocation Incentive, designed to help companies of all sizes recruit skilled professionals from out of state. 

The program provides a $15,000 incentive payment for each qualifying hire who relocates to Ohio and establishes permanent residency. Employers can receive up to $225,000 per year—equivalent to 15 new hires—on a first-come, first-served basis. Unlike many other workforce programs, these funds are direct payments to the employer with no restrictions on how the money is used. 

Eligibility is straightforward: companies must operate in one of JobsOhio’s targeted industries, hire for full-time STEM or technical roles and provide relocation data for the past three years to set a hiring baseline. Contractors are not eligible, but new full-time employees who move to Ohio in priority occupations qualify companies for the incentive. 

The process is simple. Employers apply online, bring new talent to Ohio, and then request disbursement once the hire is complete. With dedicated funding for businesses of all sizes, the Relocation Incentive is an important tool to help Ohio employers secure the technical expertise they need while making Ohio an even stronger destination for innovation and growth.  

To learn more about the Relocation Incentive, click here. 

This initiative complements Ohio’s TechCred Program, which reimburses Ohio employers for helping their current employees earn short-term, industry-recognized credentials in technology fields. Together, these programs not only bring new talent to Ohio but also upskill Ohio’s existing workforce, ensuring businesses can grow with both fresh recruits and a more advanced team.  

Ohio’s next TechCred application period will open on Sept. 2 and close on Sept. 30. To learn more about the TechCred Program, click here. The Ohio Society of CPAs has partnered with MAX Technical Training to offer classes to our members that qualify for CPE, learn more here.