Early Warning Network

The function of an Early Warning Network is to identify firms that may be at risk of closing or laying off workers, and to help those firms’ access public and private resources that will make it possible for them to retain their workforce and lead to growth in Ohio. Early Warning Networks are a key component of job retention and targeted-industry specific growth. Experience shows us that a company’s difficulties are easier to address before they reach the crisis stage. It is also easier and less costly to save an existing local company than to create a new business or attract one from outside the state.

It is important to anticipate problems at companies that occur prior to a public notice of a layoff. If an industry experiences decline, it may be due to several factors. Once this occurs, financing, long-term investment, operating cash flow, availability of loans, etc. may become a serious problem. 

The Early Warning Network will facilitate partnerships among state and local workforce and economic development partners; Early Warning Network partners will inventory any resources that may be available to companies and help customize and implement strategic solutions for those companies at risk.

The Early Warning Network will fund three types of programs: (a) Retention Programs, (b) Labor-Management Cooperation Programs, and (c) an Employee Ownership Center. Each of these different types of programs is further discussed in the Request for Proposals (RFP).  Please find a PDF of the RFP located under resources.

Questions prior to submission may be directed to Workforce.Talent@development.ohio.gov. Questions will be edited for conciseness and the Department reserves the right to combine similar questions. Answers will be posted on this website.  Applicants are responsible for checking the website.