By John Byczkowski
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Local high-tech companies and researchers will hear Thursday how to win money from Ohio's Third Frontier program.

Officials from Ohio's Department of Development will detail what programs are available and how to apply for loans and grants at the University of Cincinnati.

The sessions will cover the nuts and bolts of applying, "but most importantly, we want to gain some insight into strategies for increasing competitiveness, so we can get more money into our area," said Dorothy Air, UC's associate senior vice president for entrepreneurial affairs.

Third Frontier is a 10-year, $1.1 billion program to create high-tech jobs. Since 2002, companies and research groups in Hamilton County have received $37.3 million in grants from the Third Frontier program. That compares with $73.3 million won by Cuyahoga County and $59.3 million by Franklin County.

One session will cover Innovation Ohio Fund loans, available to manufacturers and high-tech companies to cover the cost of buildings and equipment. The deadline for applications is March 1.

A second session covers grants from the Third Frontier Action Fund, which can be used for a variety of purposes. No deadline has been set for filing applications.

Both meetings will take place Thursday morning in room 7051 of the Medical Sciences Building at the University of Cincinnati. The session on Innovation Ohio Fund loans is at 8:30 a.m., and the session on Third Frontier Action Fund grants is at 10 a.m.

Information: 558-6054.

E-mail johnb@enquirer.com.