HB96 WBL Program Implementation Plans
This grant supports Ohio public colleges in expanding and tracking work-based learning programs like internships and co-ops, aiming for 75% undergraduate participation in partnership with JobsOhio.
Funder: Ohio Department of Higher Education
Due Dates: September 10, 2026: Submission deadline for the AY2026-2027 HB96 Work-based Learning (WBL) Program Implementation Plan | June 30, 2028: Deadline to submit the first annual report to ODHE for the co-op internship program (per HB96 requirement)
Funding Amounts: Funding details not specified in RFP; institutions may be eligible for state support or future funding as program develops.
Summary: Supports Ohio public higher education institutions in developing and implementing work-based learning program plans to expand student participation in co-ops, internships, apprenticeships, and externships.
Key Information: Only state institutions of higher education in Ohio are eligible; plan must address collaboration with JobsOhio and set incremental participation goals.
Description
The Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) is seeking proposals from Ohio’s public institutions of higher education to implement comprehensive work-based learning (WBL) program plans for academic years 2026–2027 and 2027–2028. This initiative, mandated by Am. Sub. House Bill 96, aims to expand and improve opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in co-ops, internships, apprenticeships, externships, and other eligible WBL experiences. Institutions are expected to assess their current infrastructure, set robust goals, and develop strategies to increase student engagement and employer partnerships, particularly in alignment with Ohio's key economic sectors as identified by JobsOhio.
The program emphasizes collaboration across academic, career services, and institutional research offices to track, report, and support student WBL participation. The long-term objective is for at least 75% of undergraduates to complete a WBL experience before graduation.
