JobsOhio Relocation Incentive

Ohio's STEM and technical talent helps propel companies’ growth and success, but access to a steady talent pipeline can be a challenge for employers nationwide.

The JobsOhio Relocation Incentive helps Ohio employers of any size in ten critical sectors expand their workforce, specifically in STEM and technical occupations, with direct financial incentives for attracting out-of-state professionals.

To apply, confirm your business qualifies by reviewing the guidelines, then complete and submit the application.

Note: The online application must be completed in a single session – it cannot be saved and completed later.

Why Participate?

• $15,000 incentive payment: Received for each qualifying new hire who establishes permanent residency and starts work.
• First-come, first-served: Up to $225,000 total (15 hires) per company until program funds are depleted. 
• No strings attached: Direct payment of funds to your company with no restrictions on specific eligible costs.
• Employers of all sizes: Dedicated funding for companies of all sizes to ensure any employer can participate.

Is My Company Eligible?

To qualify for the incentive, employers must meet all following criteria:

• Do business as an Ohio-based employer in one of JobsOhio’s targeted industries.
• Hire full-time employee in STEM and technical occupation (1099 contractors do not qualify).
• Provide the number of relocated STEM and technical hires for three prior calendar years to establish an annual baseline relocation number.

Who Are Eligible Hires?

New full-time STEM or technical employees whose roles align with JobsOhio priority occupations may qualify an employer for the incentive when they relocate to Ohio from out of state and establish residency.

How Does It Work?

1. Qualify: Employer completes and submits the short online application. JobsOhio will review and communicate eligibility to the employer.
2. Hire & relocate: The employee moves to Ohio and begins employment.
3. Request disbursement: Employer submits request for incentive, validating successful out-of-state hire and relocation.
4. Receive funds: JobsOhio provides an incentive payment to the employer; employer may apply and receive funding for multiple qualified hires, above established baseline, until the employer reaches the maximum or incentive funds are depleted.

JobsOhio Relocation Incentive Frequently Asked Questions