Yogi Terrell, representing the Columbus Fashion Alliance, told the Franklin County Board of Commissioners on Dec. 2 that the Ready to Work workforce program and LaunchLab accelerator — both supported with county funding — have placed 24 participants so far and that the program currently reports a 70% job placement rate.

Terrell said the alliance worked with Ohio University to model outcomes for an anticipated 30 graduates per year and presented preliminary figures he attributed to that modeling: $6,490,000 in annual economic input, support for 49 jobs to date and $1,300,000 in combined annual tax revenue. He cited placement at retailers including Macy’s and a Gucci store and described partnerships that place participants into management-training tracks.

Program participants spoke about their experiences. Devin Snyder said the program changed the landscape for young creatives in Columbus and helped him grow his brand. Corey Hazel described LaunchLab’s business training and financial tools as important to building a sustainable enterprise.

Commissioners praised the programs as investments in economic mobility and small-business development. The presentation included program milestones — a retail store called Gallery with approximately $40,000 in sales since reopening, a $10,000 pitch-competition prize awarded to a participant, grant awards to brands, and participation at national trade events.

Terrell said the alliance is exploring partnerships with Miami University for an entrepreneurship lab and intends to share a fuller Ohio University report with county staff. The presentation concluded without formal county action; commissioners expressed continued support.