In a bid to bolster Ohio’s manufacturing sector, Ohio House Bill 435 is proposing to establish the Ohio Manufacturing Technologies Assistance Program (MTAP), a $12 million grant program that would provide crucial support and resources to Ohio’s small- to medium-sized manufacturing businesses desiring to modernize their machinery and facilities. The proposed MTAP would offer a comprehensive suite of services, including technical assistance, workforce training, and access to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies.
The program is a joint venture by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) and the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. State Representatives Nick Santucci (R-Howland Township) and Steve Demetriou (R-Bainbridge Township) are the sponsors.
MTAP Eligibility
To be eligible for the grant, a business would need to meet the following requirements:
- Manufactures, processes, assembles, or refines goods at a facility located in Ohio
- Uses a NAICS code of 31-33 within the manufacturing sector
- Has operated as a manufacturer in Ohio for at least 3 years (before the application date)
- At least 51% of gross revenue is derived from sales of manufacturing goods in the past 3 years (before application date)
- Employs at the application date, no more than 500 full-time employees at one or more locations (full-time means 35 or more hours per week)
- Demonstrates ability to provide matching funds from private sources equal to the amount of the requested grant
- Has no outstanding tax or other liabilities owed to the state of Ohio and is in good standing with the Secretary of State, Department of Development, and any other governmental entity charged with regulating manufacturing businesses
- Can attest that its manufacturing business compliant with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements
- Can attest that the business is not in bankruptcy
In addition, before applying for a grant under this program, a business would need to obtain an assessment of the proposed eligible project from the Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), managed by the Ohio Department of Development. Businesses would also be required to keep itemized records and submit a report to the Department of Development upon completion of the project, or two years following the date the grant was awarded. Importantly, any unused funds would be returned to MTAP, including those not matched by private contributions within 90 days after submitting the report.
Industry Support
By equipping manufacturers with the tools and expertise needed to adopt advanced technologies such as automation, additive manufacturing, and data analytics, MTAP would drive productivity gains, reduce production costs, and foster innovation. Moreover, MTAP is expected to create high-quality jobs, attract investment, and strengthen supply chains across Ohio.
According to OMA President Ryan Augsburger, the grant program is essential for ensuring the industry’s long-term sustainability. In a press release by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, he stated: “We are seeing successful policy models in neighboring states like Iowa and Indiana, and the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association is confident that MTAP will not only stimulate growth and competitiveness but also position Ohio’s manufacturers for sustained success in the face of rapid technological change. We thank Representatives Santucci and Demetriou for their leadership in pushing this innovative solution to enhance our industry’s operations and supply chain.”
To learn more about MTAP and House Bill 435, including additional details regarding proposed eligibility requirements, ineligible expenses, and the application approval process, contact your HW&Co. advisor.
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