The current TechCred application opened on July 3, 2023 and will close on July 31, 2023 at 3:00 p.m.

Apply at TechCred.ohio.gov

Download a program handout

About TechCred

Emerging technology enables new discoveries and advancements in the life sciences industry, leading to new and improved life-saving treatments. Leading innovation at scale requires employees at all levels to stay on top of technology skills, and employers that invest in employee development are better positioned to innovate and compete for top talent.

TechCred reimburses Ohio employers that invest in technology-focused credentials for employees. These credentials take a year or less to complete and prepare current and future employees for the technology jobs Ohio employers need.

Benefits for Life Sciences Companies

Life sciences companies that need a workforce with technical skills can benefit greatly from TechCred. Employers can apply to be reimbursed up to $2,000 per credential, up to $30,000 per round, for a total of up to $180,000 per year.

Does your company qualify?

Any Ohio registered employer that employs Ohio resident W-2 employees is eligible. Employers of all sizes and in all industries are encouraged to apply. Only one application will be accepted per employer, per application period.

Apply for TechCred

July 2023 applications are being accepted now! Upcoming application rounds will be held during the months of September and November. Click here to apply.

How it Works

1) Identify skills needs and employees. What kind of technology-focused skills do your employees need to learn to be successful? Have you recently implemented new software? Have you updated your manufacturing process? Do you require employees to learn certain data skills? TechCred funds credentials in subjects ranging from cloud and computer programming to production tech, data analytics, and microbiology.

2) Decide on a credential provider. Each credential has a provider – typically, colleges, universities, private training providers, or industry groups. If the credential your company needs is not currently on the list, you can apply to have it added. To qualify for reimbursement, credentials must be industry-recognized (meaning skills must be applicable beyond your company), technology-focused, and completable in less than 12 months. According to the TechCred website, “technology credentials rely on science, technology, engineering and/or math (STEM) related education, as well as technical skills, to benefit an employer dependent on the development, deployment, and investment in new and emerging technology.”

3) Apply online at TechCred.Ohio.gov. Once you have located the information needed to apply, the online application should take 20 minutes or less. Remember that you can apply to have a new credential added to the list. If you apply to add a new credential, be sure to specify in as much detail as possible what makes this credential “technology-focused” (based on the definition above) to increase the likelihood of approval. Learn more about how credentials are approved.

4) Enroll employees in the program. After the State of Ohio approves your application, your employees may enroll in the credential program. Typically, applicants hear back within a month of the application closing date.

5) Upload proof of credential completion. Once employee(s) complete the credential, your company will have six (6) weeks to upload proof, typically a pdf copy, that the employee completed the credential to receive reimbursement. Learn more about reimbursement requirements here.

6) Receive reimbursement. Upon receiving proof of completion, the State of Ohio will reimburse your company. Typically, employers receive reimbursement within 30-60 days.

Online Resources

TechCred.Ohio.gov website powered by the InnovateOhio Platform

• The Ohio Department of Development on TwitterLinkedIn