County Invests $160K into Ohio Futures Youth Media Production Training

Franklin County Board of Commissioners I Franklin County Office of Economic Engagement and Community Development

Franklin County approved a $160,000 grant to Ohio Film Futures Inc. to deliver a two-phase Media Production Camp for county youth ages 14 to 18, offering structured access to a growing field before participants enter the workforce. 

The program runs from May through October 2026 and provides more than 280 hours of hands-on training in script writing, filming, video editing, podcasting, and media production. Alongside those technical skills, participants develop workplace competencies in communication, teamwork, and project management. Every participant will produce short films and podcast episodes and build a professional portfolio suited for future education or employment applications. 

Youth will work directly with industry professionals throughout the program, giving them real exposure to what working in media actually looks like. That combination of structured training and industry access is the design intent: give young people in Franklin County the tools and the connections to compete. 

Commissioner John O'Grady raised the connection between this investment and the regional film ecosystem at the May 12 General Session. He noted a recent conversation with Cameron Mitchell about film interest in Central Ohio and asked whether Ohio Film Futures has a working relationship with the Columbus Film Commission or the Ohio Film Commission. Ohio Film Futures indicated that relationship has not yet been established but expressed openness to making the connection. 

The grant aligns with goals two, three, eleven, and thirteen of the county's Rise Together poverty reduction blueprint, focused on workforce development, economic opportunity, and community engagement. The program is led by CEO and President Devin Coughran and Executive Director Antoinette Bates. Resolution 300-26 was approved unanimously at the May 12, 2026 General Session.