Crawford County, OH — October 6, 2025 — The Crawford County CEO Program is preparing to launch its first class of high school entrepreneurs in fall 2026, and now is the time for local business and community leaders to get involved. The program is seeking a few final investors and additional board members to join a growing group of community champions.
CEO, which stands for Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities, is a nationally recognized model from the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship that connects students with the real world of business. Students spend the school year visiting local companies, learning from guest speakers, and working one-on-one with business mentors while building their own real companies. The experience transforms students into confident, resourceful young professionals who graduate ready to lead, innovate, and contribute to their home communities.
The program operates entirely on local support. Neither schools nor students pay to participate. Launch funding has already been provided by North Central Electric Cooperative, United Way of North Central Ohio, and the Crawford Partnership, with early commitments also from Firelands Federal Credit Union, Ohio Mutual Insurance Group, and Mark’s Homemade Ice Cream. The board is now just a few commitments away from its goal of 35 local investors contributing $1,000 each per year to sustain the program.
Todd Boyer, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Ohio Mutual Insurance Group and a member of the CEO board, said that investing in the CEO program is investing in the future of Crawford County.
“These students will become our future workforce, our future business owners, and our future community leaders. By supporting this program, we are helping them build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed, and showing them that opportunity exists right here at home. It is one of the most impactful and forward-thinking ways local businesses can give back to their community,” he said.
Mike Martin, Principal of Buckeye Central High School and a member of the CEO board, added that from the perspective of an educator, he can see the difference that this program can make for students.
“I see firsthand how powerful this program will be for our students. CEO isn’t just another class — it’s an opportunity for students to discover what they’re passionate about, lean into their strengths, and learn through real-world, project-based experiences. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and authentic opportunities, showing students that their ideas, talents, and futures have a place right here in Crawford County. Our best and brightest don’t have to leave to succeed — they can build meaningful careers and lives in the community they call home,” he said.
Businesses that join as investors gain more than recognition. They become part of a powerful network developing the next generation of local talent. Opportunities include hosting students on-site, serving as mentors, interacting with the class, and helping shape the program’s future direction as board members.
To learn more or to inquire about becoming an investor or board member, contact Jimmy Flint at (419) 951-5627 or info@crawfordcountyceo.com. Additional information is available at www.crawfordcountyohceo.com.