This project attempted to develop competitive employment opportunities for people with mental retardation with Greater Cincinnati (Ohio) businesses and industries. The Employment Initiatives Project was designed for persons with mental retardation, functioning in the moderate to severe range, who are located in either an adult work activity or sheltered workshop day program. After identifying working models, employers were contacted and asked to hire an individual for a competitive wage once he/she had demonstrated ability to perform successfully on the job (intensive on-site training was gradually phased out with the goal being full competitive employment). Among other models used were small work teams who performed a contracted service for an industry or a business which became the primary investor in a sheltered workshop. Identification of likely businesses was followed by development of an informational packet (initial contact), and an initial meeting with the business representatives. Key features of the program were the assurance that a qualified competent worker would be trained on the job, and that follow-up services would be available at no cost to the employer. (DB)