ODJFS seeks applications for federal regional economic development grants

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) today encouraged local communities to work together to develop proposals to be considered for regional economic development grants available from the United States Department of Labor (DOL).

The $65 million Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development (WIRED) grants provided by DOL are intended to foster economic transformation by developing comprehensive regional approaches to education and workforce and economic development.

"The globalization of our economy requires us to take new approaches to ensure prosperity for Ohio and the nation," said ODJFS Assistant Director Terry Thomas. "The WIRED Initiative fits in well with our efforts to turn around Ohio by spurring the growth of regional economies and globally competitive industries and at the same time fostering innovation and educational partnerships to fully tap into the talents of our next generation."

Each state may submit up to two applications to compete nationally for the grants. Individual grant awards are expected to total up to $5 million over the course of three years. The applications must address three components essential to a competitive regional economy: investment, infrastructure and talent development.

Initial letters of intent must be submitted to ODJFS by March 16, with final applications due by March 30. Selected proposals must then be submitted to DOL no later than April 12. Information needed to develop a successful WIRED grant proposal is available at http://www.ohioworkforce411.gov/wired/.