Ohio Hometown Talent Initiative
Talent That Stays. Communities That Grow.
Ohio Hometown Talent Initiative
The Darke County pilot program of the Ohio Hometown Talent Initiative demonstrates how rural communities can shape the state’s economic future. Employers gained motivated, emerging professionals who delivered $300,000 in savings and proved themselves as potential long-term employees. Interns, in turn, received job offers, extended internships, and leadership opportunities that tied them to the community. By setting the bar for engaged internships that combine rigorous work with vibrant community immersion, Darke County showed how to keep talent invested in rural life. This model creates a pipeline that not only advances local businesses but elevates communities by making them destinations where people want to live, work, and raise families. With its proven dual benefits — business results and workforce retention — the program offers Ohio a scalable strategy to strengthen its talent pipeline statewide.
The Miami Difference
Talent That Advances and Elevates Ohio Communities.
- Darke County leads the way by setting the bar for rural internships that blend meaningful work with authentic community connection.
- Darke County internships cultivate emerging professionals who are more likely to stay, lead, and contribute — anchoring talent where it is most needed.
- With $300,000 in savings, job offers, and extended internships, Darke County proved the Ohio Hometown Talent Initiative delivers catalytic business results and community benefit.
