Artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity are changing how
businesses operate. For employers, keeping pace means helping employees develop the skills to use these technologies effectively.
Ohio’s TechCred program can help offset that investment. Administered by the Ohio Department of Development, the program reimburses eligible employers for approved technology-focused credentials earned by their employees.
The current application period closes Friday, October 30, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Employers interested in participating should review the current requirements and prepare their applications now.
How Much Funding Is Available?
Employers awarded funding may receive reimbursement of up to $1,000 per employee, per credential, with a maximum award of $30,000 per application period.
Employers pay for training upfront and request reimbursement after employees successfully earn the approved credentials. Businesses should account for those upfront costs when planning their training budgets.
Who Is Eligible?
Ohio employers must meet several requirements, including:
- Registration with the Ohio Secretary of State.
- A physical, nonresidential business location in Ohio.
- Ohio-resident W-2 employees.
- Employee reporting to the Ohio Unemployment Insurance Office through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
- Income tax withholding for employees.
Employers should review the full eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
What Types of Training May Qualify?
TechCred supports industry-recognized, technology-focused, short-term credentials. Eligible credentials must result in a certificate or certification and meet the program's training-duration requirements.
Employers may want to explore credentials in the following areas, subject to confirmation that the specific credential and training provider meet Ohio’s current requirements:
- Microsoft Excel data analysis and visualization, including advanced Excel and VBA
- Microsoft Power BI data analytics, DAX, and data modeling
- Microsoft Azure and cloud technology
- Cybersecurity and IT certifications, including CompTIA credentials
- Microsoft 365 Copilot and applied AI training
- Artificial intelligence and AI application development
Not every technology-related course qualifies. Ohio distinguishes hands-on technical training from basic software use, general overviews and strategy-focused programs. A course title or software name alone does not establish eligibility.
How Does the Process Work?
The reimbursement process generally follows these steps:
- Identify training needs and select an eligible credential and training provider.
- Apply during an open application period.
- Receive funding approval and execute the grant agreement.
- Pay for employees to complete the approved training.
- Have employees successfully earn the approved credential.
- Submit the required documentation to request reimbursement. Ohio then reviews the request before payment.
Training must begin no earlier than the effective date of the grant agreement, which is the first day of the application period, and be completed within the program's required timeframe. Employers should review the current guidelines carefully before incurring training costs.
Make Training Part of Your Business Plan
The strongest training investments begin with a specific business need. Consider where employees could benefit from stronger technical skills: improving reporting, protecting information, automating repetitive tasks, or supporting new systems.
Connecting training to a practical business objective can help employers realize value beyond the potential reimbursement.
With the October 30 deadline approaching, employers interested in TechCred should review eligible credentials and providers and determine whether the program fits their upcoming training plans.
Visit Ohio’s TechCred program website for current guidelines and application information.
https://development.ohio.gov/business/workforce-development/tech-cred/apply
Contact Meaden & Moore
For help or more information about Ohio’s TechCred program, contact Meaden & Moore.
