Economic & Community Development Updates

Gain critical local labor market insights to help your business recruit, retain, and remain competitive.

Navigating today's workforce landscape requires accurate, localized data. The Alliance has officially published the results of the 2026 Hardin County Wage & Benefits Survey. Designed as a tool for local employers, this compiled statistical report gives you a clear benchmark of our regional market to help you make informed decisions for your organization.

USDA Rural Development highlights affordable pathways, loans, and repair grants for rural families.

Homeownership is one of the most powerful ways to build wealth and strengthen your family's financial future. This National Homeownership Month, discover how USDA Rural Development programs are cutting barriers and creating affordable paths for first-time buyers and homeowners looking to build, buy, or repair in rural Ohio.

Local business owners, HR professionals, and leaders: your insights are needed to help paint an accurate picture of our local economic landscape. The Alliance is officially launching the 2026 Hardin County Wage and Benefit Survey, and your participation is crucial. The survey will remain open through June 30, 2026.

April 17, 2026 Featured Speaker: Annetta Shirk, OhioMeansJobs Hardin County Brandy Theis, Rhodes State College

Hardin County employers: attract top STEM and technical talent with the JobsOhio Relocation Incentive. Eligible companies can receive $15,000 for every qualifying out-of-state hire made beyond their typical annual baseline. With up to $225,000 available per company, these "no strings attached" funds can cover signing bonuses or recruitment costs. Boost your workforce and help grow Ohio. Learn how to apply at hccba.com or contact "The Alliance" office in Kenton today!

Featured Speakers: Jim Whitaker, OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital Kayla Zehery, The Ohio State University at Lima

Friday, December 19, 2025; 8:30 AM; Kenton Elks Lodge

Featured Speaker: Matt Davis, RGP Topic: Development Sites

The search for top-tier STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and technical talent is a national challenge. To give Ohio businesses a competitive edge in securing the skilled workforce needed for future growth, JobsOhio has launched a powerful new initiative: the JobsOhio Relocation Incentive.

Ohio companies looking to accelerate their projects and cultivate a future talent pipeline can leverage a powerful resource: the College Technology Internship Program (CTIP), offered through the Ohio Department of Development.

For local businesses seeking to build a strong talent pipeline, reduce hiring costs, and gain extra hands for immediate projects, partnering with Ohio Hi-Point Career Center (OHP) through its Work-Based Learning (WBL) program is an essential strategy.

Governor DeWine Announces Launch of Child Care Cred Program to Support Families and Employers

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) Director Kara Wente today announced the launch of the Child Care Cred Program, a $10 million program making child care more affordable for working families while helping Ohio businesses strengthen their workforce.

Overview | Office of Workforce Development, Ohio Department of Job & Family Services

Apprenticeships are a great way to fill your talent pipeline!

Getting your site shovel-ready and attracting developers.

Here is a breakdown of shovel-ready site indicators. The more known variables there are regarding a site, the less risk there is to a potential developer.

Support | Incentives | Grants

Resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs are available to help you start your business and to expand when it is time to grow.

Read on to find out about some available grants for small businesses.

Read on to find out about some available grants for small businesses.