Tech Up, Lock Down: TechCred & Cybersecurity Resources for Ohio Businesses

Running a business in today's economy means managing digital transformation, exploring AI, and keeping your customer data safe. For small to mid-sized businesses, the cost of training staff and deploying enterprise-grade cybersecurity can feel out of reach. Fortunately, the State of Ohio has built robust, free initiatives designed specifically to offset these operational costs and protect your bottom line.

Whether you are looking to upskill your team in basic software, implement advanced manufacturing tech, or defend your storefront from digital bad actors, these two core resources are essential additions to your toolkit:

1. Ohio TechCred: Reimbursements for Employee Training

The Ohio TechCred program helps employers build a stronger, more competitive workforce by eliminating the financial barrier to technology training. If your business wants to train a current or prospective employee in a short-term, technology-focused credential, the state will reimburse you up to $2,000 per credential upon completion.

• What Counts as "Tech"? The scope is incredibly broad. Eligible certificates take less than a year to complete and cover categories like software development, data analytics, digital marketing platforms, advanced manufacturing, CAD design, and cybersecurity.
• Flexibility: Trainings can be completed online or in-person through approved providers, allowing your team to learn without disrupting daily operations.
• Get Started: To view the approved credential list or apply during the next open grant window, visit the official website: Ohio TechCred Portal.

2. CyberOhio: Your Small Business Security Shield

Small businesses are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals because they often lack dedicated IT departments. CyberOhio, operating out of the state government, acts as a centralized defense hub specifically tailored to help small organizations build up their digital defenses.

Through their small business outreach and the civilian experts at the Ohio Cyber Reserve (OhCR), they provide actionable, easy-to-understand assistance:

• Proactive Preparedness: Access free and low-cost cybersecurity toolkits, industry-specific security guidelines, and training materials to teach your employees how to spot phishing attempts.
• Vulnerability Assessments: Learn how to evaluate your business's network vulnerabilities before an exploit happens.
• Incident Response: Know exactly what steps to take, who to contact, and how to recover if your business ever experiences a data breach or ransomware attack.
• Get Started: Protect your data, your clients, and your reputation by exploring the available guides: CyberOhio Small Business Resource Hub.

Tip: Technology and cybersecurity go hand-in-hand.  Consider applying for TechCred funding to have your office manager or IT lead earn a cybersecurity certificate - the state pays for the training via TechCred, and your business gets a certified internal defender via CyberOhio strategies!