Leading Policy Solutions for Ohio’s Economic Future
The Ohio Chamber Research Foundation Fellows Program represents a groundbreaking initiative designed to improve Ohio’s business climate through rigorous research, innovative policy development, and thought leadership. Our fellows program connects leading experts with Ohio’s business community to develop evidence-based solutions that strengthen our state’s economic competitiveness across all sectors and policy areas.
Program Mission
The OCRF Fellows Program engages top-tier experts from academia, policy, and industry to tackle the complex challenges facing Ohio businesses and economic development. Through in-depth research and strategic analysis, our fellows develop actionable recommendations that help shape public policy, improve Ohio’s business climate, and drive economic growth across the state.
What Our Fellows Do
Research & Analysis
Fellows conduct comprehensive research on Ohio’s economic landscape, analyzing policy impacts, business climate factors, and market trends to develop evidence-based recommendations that address real-world challenges facing Ohio businesses and communities.
Policy Development
Working closely with business leaders and policymakers, fellows translate research findings into practical policy solutions that improve Ohio’s competitiveness and economic development ecosystem.
Thought Leadership
Through publications, speaking engagements, and media commentary, fellows elevate important economic and policy discussions and influence debates at the state and national level.
Stakeholder Engagement
Fellows collaborate with businesses, industry associations, educational institutions, economic development organizations, and government agencies to build consensus around effective policy strategies.
Program Impact
Research Excellence: Each fellow produces four comprehensive policy briefs and op-eds throughout their fellowship year, contributing to Ohio’s body of workforce knowledge.
Policy Influence: Fellows work directly with policymakers and business leaders to ensure research translates into meaningful policy changes that improve Ohio’s business climate and economic competitiveness.
Network Building: The program creates lasting connections between researchers, business leaders, and policymakers, fostering ongoing collaboration beyond the fellowship year.
Statewide Reach: Fellows present their findings at conferences, roundtables, and business forums, extending their impact across Ohio’s diverse regional economies.
energy policy, and other factors critical to Ohio’s business climate.
Fellowship Structure
Duration: One-year appointments (September 2025 – September 2026)
Compensation: Annual stipend
Deliverables: Quarterly policy briefs, op-eds, presentations, and stakeholder engagement
Support: Professional development, media training, research assistance, and extensive networking opportunities
Why Sponsor the Fellows Program?
The Fellows Program offers unique opportunities for organizations to:
- Shape Policy: Influence workforce policy discussions through cutting-edge research
- Access Expertise: Connect with leading workforce development experts and their insights
- Build Networks: Engage with other forward-thinking business leaders and sponsors
- Demonstrate Leadership: Show commitment to solving Ohio’s workforce challenges
Join Ohio’s Economic Policy Innovation Movement
The Ohio Chamber Research Foundation Fellows Program represents an unprecedented opportunity to address economic and policy challenges through rigorous research and innovative thinking. Whether you’re a potential fellow, sponsor, or stakeholder, we invite you to be part of this transformative initiative that will shape Ohio’s business climate for years to come.
Ready to Apply?
Are you a policy expert ready to make a lasting impact on Ohio’s economic future? Our inaugural class of fellows will focus on workforce development while establishing the foundation for comprehensive economic policy research.
Applications are now being accepted for our inaugural 2025-2026 cohort focusing on workforce development in Ohio.
Interested in Sponsoring?
Join forward-thinking organizations in supporting groundbreaking economic policy research that will shape Ohio’s business climate and economic future.
Learn About Sponsorship Opportunities
The Ohio Chamber Research Foundation Fellows Program is committed to advancing evidence-based policy solutions that strengthen Ohio’s business climate and create economic opportunities for all Ohioans.
