Ohio employers face a critical talent shortage, with more open positions than available workers, particularly in STEM and technical fields. To drive economic growth and strengthen the state’s workforce, JobsOhio launched the Relocation Incentive program. This initiative provides Ohio-based employers with a relocation incentive of $15,000 for each qualifying out-of-state hire who relocates to Ohio and establishes residency.
The program directly addresses talent gaps by making it financially attractive to recruit nationally rather than compete locally. It empowers businesses in targeted industries to access a broader, qualified talent pool while supporting statewide economic growth.
Overview Of The JobsOhio Relocation Incentive
JobsOhio offers relocation incentive payments to eligible Ohio employers for successfully hiring and relocating talent from outside the state. Employers receive $15,000 per qualifying hire, with a per-company cap of $225,000 (equivalent to 15 hires). Funds are allocated across three buckets: large companies (>$1B revenue), middle-market ($10M–$1B), and small businesses (<$10M), ensuring broad accessibility.
The incentive applies only to hires that exceed the employer’s established three-year baseline of out-of-state relocations in priority occupations. It is first-come, first-served and available year-round until funds are depleted.
Employer Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the relocation incentive program, employers must meet the following eligibility requirements.
- Be physically located and conducting business in Ohio.
- Operate in one of JobsOhio’s ten targeted industries (Advanced Manufacturing, Advanced Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy & Chemicals, Financial Services & Insurtech, Food & Agribusiness, Healthcare, Logistics & Distribution, Military & Federal, Technology).
- Hire for permanent, full-time W-2 positions in JobsOhio’s Priority Occupations.
- Provide a verifiable baseline of average out-of-state relocations in priority occupations over the prior three calendar years.
Incentive Payment Eligibility
Payments of $15,000 are issued for each new hire who:
- Is a non-Ohio resident before relocation.
- Accepts a permanent W-2 role in a Priority Occupation.
- Establishes permanent residency in Ohio.
- Exceeds the employer’s three-year annualized baseline.
Priority Occupations include high-demand STEM and technical roles across categories such as computer and technology, life sciences, business research and data analysis, engineering, installation and maintenance, and production (around 70+ specific job titles). Recent college graduates from out-of-state institutions and transitioning military members (under certain conditions) may also qualify.
Application & Disbursement Process
The straightforward process includes:
- Submit an online pre-qualification application (typically completed in one session).
- JobsOhio reviews and approves eligibility.
- Enter into a formal agreement outlining terms and conditions.
- After a qualifying hire and relocation, submit a disbursement request with supporting documentation (previous residency, recruitment details, etc.).
- JobsOhio reviews and disburses the $15,000 payment (typically within 30 days).
No retention period is required, and funds have no restrictions on use.
Flexible Use Of Relocation Incentive Funds
JobsOhio encourages creative approaches to talent acquisition. Eligible expenses are unrestricted and may include:
- Enhanced relocation packages for new hires.
- Signing bonuses for out-of-state candidates.
- Expanded recruitment and sourcing efforts in national markets.
- Additional marketing and branding campaigns to attract talent.
This flexibility allows employers to tailor incentives that best compete for top talent.
Goals & Guiding Principles
The relocation incentive program aligns with broader objectives to:
- Attract new STEM and technical talent to Ohio.
- Reduce in-state poaching by equalizing the cost of recruiting from out-of-state.
- Equip employers with tools and resources to compete nationally.
- Promote inclusive hiring practices and distribute talent across all regions of the state.
- Complement existing JobsOhio talent attraction initiatives, including Find Your Ohio and Talent Acquisition Services.
Take The Next Step Toward Workforce Growth
The JobsOhio Relocation Incentive represents a powerful opportunity for Ohio employers to overcome talent challenges, accelerate hiring, and contribute to statewide economic growth. By leveraging this relocation incentive, companies can access the skilled professionals needed to thrive.
Employers ready to explore eligibility or prepare an application should reach out to their GBQ advisor for expert guidance, baseline calculations, and streamlined participation in the program. Contact your advisor today to position your organization for success in attracting and retaining top talent.
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