About Global Cleveland
We Strengthen Our Region By Welcoming Our World
Global Cleveland connects international people, employers, educational institutions, and communities to strengthen Northeast Ohio’s workforce, economy, and future.
Who We Are
Global Cleveland is a nonprofit economic development organization dedicated to helping Northeast Ohio attract, connect, support, and retain international people and global talent. By bringing together employers, educational institutions, community organizations, and government partners, we help create pathways for individuals from around the world to build successful careers, meaningful connections, and lasting lives in our region.
Our work supports international students, foreign-born professionals, entrepreneurs, newcomers, and internationally connected residents at every stage of their journey. Through workforce development, leadership programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, and community engagement, we help strengthen both individual success and Northeast Ohio’s long-term economic growth.
We believe our region’s future depends on welcoming global talent, investing in people, and building communities where everyone can contribute and thrive. Together, we’re creating a more competitive, connected, and globally engaged Northeast Ohio.
Programs that Turn Opportunity into Impact
Our initiatives create practical pathways for newcomers to contribute, lead, and grow in our region.
Housing as Economic Development
Connecting newcomers to safe, affordable housing—and highlighting how stable housing strengthens our workforce.
Newcomer Professional Pathways
Pairing international job seekers with local professionals for mentorship, resume guidance, and interview preparation.
Global Rising Leadership Program®
Developing international leaders through civic engagement and leadership training—building a pipeline of globally minded talent.
Global Entrepreneur in Residence (GEIR)
Helping international entrepreneurs launch and grow their ventures in Northeast Ohio through university partnerships.
Workforce and Employer Engagement
Connecting Employers to Global Talent
We equip employers with the knowledge and tools to hire and retain international talent—through programs like OPT, CPT, and H-2B visas—and to create welcoming workplaces that strengthen retention and competitiveness.
International Student Retention
Keeping Global Graduates Local
By working with universities and students, we help international graduates navigate immigration options, find local opportunities, and build careers that keep their talent in Ohio.
Policy and Advocacy
We advocate for policies that expand opportunity—supporting International Medical Graduates, visa reforms, and licensing access that allow skilled professionals to contribute fully to our region.
Building the Ecosystem
We bring together community partners, service providers, and institutions to create a more connected, inclusive regional ecosystem—one where everyone has a fair shot to contribute and succeed.
Global Cleveland's Vision and Goals
Embrace and Cultivate a Culture of Inclusion and Shared Prosperity
Cleveland boasts a rich cultural heritage and Global Cleveland will foster collaboration and support between all cultures and Greater Cleveland residents.
Transform Cleveland into an International Hub of Innovation
Growing and tapping into Cleveland’s powerful economic ecosystem provides opportunities for individuals from around the world to learn, build, grow, and flourish.
Set the Table for Internationalization and Economic Growth
Promote globalization and regional prosperity through the active engagement of individuals, civic, cultural, corporate, faith-based, nonprofit, and educational institutions.
