The money guide

Every year, Ohio Third Frontier sponsors a bevy of funding opportunities by way of grants and loans. In the past, hiVelocity has taken an in-depth look at OTF's vibrant internship program and the Industrial Research Development Center Program. We've taken yet another look into OTF's funding structure in this week's feature. But the opportunities don't stop there, so we've rounded up a few more examples of state-sponsored funding for the innovative and savvy:
 
The Pre-Seed Fund Capitalization Program accelerates the growth of early-stage Ohio technology companies by increasing the availability of professionally managed capital and services. Last year, $25 million in funding was made available through the program.
 
The Technology Validation and Start-Up Fund (TVSF) increases economic growth through startup companies that commercialize technologies developed by Ohio schools and other Ohio not-for-profit research institutions. Program funds of $6 million are obtainable for areas including agribusiness, aero-propulsion and advanced materials.
 
The Commercial Acceleration Loan Fund (CALF) provides early-stage funding to Ohio companies to develop next-generation products and services. A CALF loan may finance up to 75 percent of project costs with loans ranging from $500,000 to $2.5 million. The program seeks to support companies and technology platforms that represent a potential path to growth within three to five years.
 
The Ohio International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE) program is a 50 percent reimbursement program designed to offset the costs associated with exporting initiatives, thereby helping small businesses expand into new international markets. Grants are based on the overall quality of the export-related activities as determined by the Ohio Development Services Agency.

The JobsOhio Network is a partnership of development professionals based throughout six geographic regions in Ohio. With a focus on strategic industry sectors, the network pursues the retention, expansion and recruitment of businesses with high potential for job and wealth creation.


Click here for a complete list of current OTF programs and here for a list of past programs.
Click here to download a spreadsheet detailing all OTF awards.