Beginning January 3, 2022, Ohio manufacturers and other businesses will have another opportunity to receive reimbursement for industry-recognized, technology-focused credentials obtained by employees. The state’s TechCred program will accept applications from January 3 through January 31, 2022 at 3:00 PM.
Eligible employers are those registered in Ohio who employ Ohio resident W-2 employees. Businesses may be in any industry; however, the program has been particularly beneficial for manufacturers, who have accounted for at least half of all approved applications since the program's launch in 2019.
Eligible employers may receive reimbursement for up to $2,000 per credential, with a maximum of $30,000 in total reimbursement per funding round. Reimbursements may cover tuition, lab fees, manuals, textbooks, and other certification costs. Credentials include certificates or certifications and must be industry-recognized, technology-focused, and short-term, meaning that the certificate or certification can be completed in less than 12 months, 900 clock hours, of 30 credit hours. Credentials earned from online or distance-learning programs are encouraged. An approved credentials list can be found at https://techcred.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/techcred/about/credential-list.
To obtain reimbursement, employers must submit documentation within six weeks of credential completion. Documentation must include proof that an individual has completed the credential, invoices, proof of payment, and information about the employee earning the credential. To learn more about Ohio’s TechCred program, visit techcred.ohio.gov or contact a member of HBK Manufacturing Solutions at manufacturing@hbkcpa.com or 330-758-8613.
