Press Room >> 2010 Press Releases

For Immediate Release
September 28, 2010

Patt-McDaniel Announces Layoff Aversion Program
Early Warning Network to identify companies at risk of closure or layoffs

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Department of Development Director Lisa Patt-McDaniel today announced a new initiative designed to identify and assist companies at risk of closure or layoffs. The Early Warning Network is currently seeking proposals from eligible applicants interested in receiving funds to support layoff aversion activities at a regional level.

The Early Warning Network will facilitate partnerships among state and local workforce and economic development partners, identify possible resources, and implement strategic solutions for companies at risk.

"The sooner we know a company is at risk, the more time we have to work out a solution. It is vital to the state's economic success to anticipate company challenges before receiving a public layoff notice," Patt-McDaniel said. "This new program, administered by our Department, will create important partnerships focused on proactive outreach to companies in need, taking the first step to saving jobs for Ohioans."

The Early Warning Network will fund three types of programs, including Retention Programs, Labor-Management Cooperation Programs, and an Employee Ownership Center. An applicant may apply for only one type of program. Applicants for Retention Programs may include any of the following: Ohio Workforce Investment Boards, One-Stop Employment and Training Systems, Chambers of Commerce, nonprofit entities representing specific industry interests, professional/scientific associations, and economic development organizations. Applicants for Labor Management Cooperation Programs may include Labor Management Organizations. Employee Ownership Centers may also apply.

"The Early Warning Network will enhance our ability to support Ohio's businesses and help protect our workforce from reductions," said Dan Reynolds, Director of the Department's Workforce and Talent Division, which administers the program. "State and local efforts will be better coordinated, making the program extremely effective at assisting at-risk companies."

Applicants must include documentation that shows a track record in working with employers, having stable relationships with their regional partners, and having past administrative responsibilities related to layoff aversion activities.

For more information on the Early Warning Network or to submit a Request for Proposal, please visit http://development.ohio.gov/workforce.

The Workforce and Talent Division provides financial assistance and technical resources for customized training involving employees of new and expanding Ohio businesses. The Division also supports community economic development efforts through job creation and retention. The result is increased employee productivity, improved labor/management relations, and a highly skilled labor pool.

Working with our partners across business, state and local governments, academia, and the nonprofit sector, the Ohio Department of Development works to attract, create, grow, and retain businesses through competitive incentives and targeted investments. Engaged every day in marketing, innovating, investing, and collaborating, the Ohio Department of Development works at the speed of business to accelerate and support the teamwork that is necessary for success by providing financial, informational, and technical assistance to those making an investment in Ohio's future.

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