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Third Frontier pilot funding approved; agency says pilots intended to prove concepts not guarantee ongoing funding
Summary
The Controlling Board approved a Department of Development item supporting a Third Frontier pilot; agency staff said pilots are designed to demonstrate success so projects can seek follow-on funding but there is no guaranteed recurring funding from Third Frontier.
The Ohio Controlling Board approved an item for the Department of Development to fund a pilot project supported by Third Frontier resources, department officials said.
Riley Everhart of the Department of Development and Eric Lindner, assistant chief of the strategic investment division, told the board that Third Frontier pilot awards are intended to “get their legs under them” so participating entities can show success and pursue future funding from private or other public sources. “Going forward, we don't believe that this project will come back for reoccurring funding,” Lindner said. He added that the department is communicating to school and career-technical partners that additional funding beyond the pilot is not guaranteed.
Board questions: Senator Wilkin asked whether awareness of lack of ongoing Third Frontier funding dampens interest in pilot projects; Lindner said interest remains strong and organizations hope to use pilot results to attract other funding. Senator Chavez pressed on whether the pilot fills a unique need or duplicates other workforce or STEM programs; development staff said the administration and Third Frontier Commission are focusing on workforce-oriented results.
Board action and next steps: The board approved the item with no objections. Department staff said they will share a list of participating schools when available and continue outreach so pilots can seek follow-on funding after the Third Frontier program winds down.
