The Ohio Advantage

1. A Flourishing Startup Ecosystem

Ohio boasts a robust and diverse startup ecosystem that provides ample opportunities for entrepreneurs. The state is home to a network of Entrepreneurial Support Organizations like Rev1 Ventures, Jumpstart, and CincyTech and co-working spaces, making it easier than ever to connect with mentors, investors, and fellow innovators. Startups in Ohio benefit from this collaborative atmosphere that encourages growth and innovation.We are known for being “Midwest Nice” which is another way of saying we are a collaborative community

2. Access to Top Talent

One of the key factors driving Ohio’s startup success is its access to top talent. The state is home to renowned universities and research institutions like The Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati and University of Dayton.

Research institutions include Batelle, Case Western Reserve University,and the Air Force Research Laboratory producing a steady stream of skilled graduates in various fields. This influx of talent makes it easier for startups to find the right people to help turn their vision into reality.

3. Supportive Government Initiatives

Ohio’s government is keen on fostering a thriving business environment. Various state programs and incentives, such as tax credits and grants, are available to support startups. These initiatives reduce the financial burden on new businesses, allowing them to invest in growth and development.

JobsOhio’s Venture Capital Programs

JobsOhio, in collaboration with the Ohio Department of Development, has launched innovative venture capital (VC) programs aimed at fostering the growth of tech-based companies in Ohio. These programs are instrumental in promoting economic development, creating jobs, and positioning Ohio as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship

4. Strategic Location

Located in the heart of the Midwest, Ohio offers a strategic location for businesses looking to expand. With easy access to major cities like Chicago, New York, and Toronto, Ohio provides a centralized base for reaching a broad customer base.

How does our location make us a logistics hub.?

Ohio’s strategic location in the heart of the United States has positioned it as a logistics hub of significant importance. This state’s geography, infrastructure, and economic conditions have combined to make it an ideal destination for warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers. Let’s delve into some key factors that contribute to Ohio’s status as a logistics hub:

Geographic Location: Ohio is centrally located within the United States, making it an excellent point of access to both the East Coast and the Midwest. This strategic location reduces transportation costs and time, making it an attractive choice for businesses looking to distribute their products efficiently.

Extensive Transportation Network: Ohio boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including an extensive network of highways, railways, and waterways. Major interstates like I-70, I-71, and I-75 intersect in Ohio, providing easy connectivity to major markets in all directions. The state is also served by several major airports, including Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, and Columbus John Glenn International Airport.

Proximity to Major Markets: Ohio’s proximity to major population centers, such as Chicago, New York City, and Washington, D.C., allows businesses to reach a significant portion of the U.S. population within a day’s drive. This accessibility is crucial for companies engaged in e-commerce, retail, and distribution.

Manufacturing Strength: Ohio has a long history of manufacturing excellence. The state is home to a wide range of manufacturing plants producing everything from automotive parts to aerospace components. The presence of these manufacturing facilities creates a natural synergy with logistics operations, as products can be shipped directly from the production line to distribution centers.

Warehousing Facilities: Ohio is dotted with warehouses and distribution centers, both large and small. Major cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland have become hotspots for warehousing operations due to their central locations and access to transportation routes. These facilities play a critical role in ensuring products reach consumers efficiently.

Economic Incentives: Ohio offers various economic incentives to attract logistics and manufacturing businesses. These incentives can include tax breaks, grants, and workforce development programs, making it financially advantageous for companies to establish a presence in the state.

Skilled Workforce: Ohio benefits from a skilled and diverse workforce, which is essential for the successful operation of logistics and manufacturing facilities. The state’s educational institutions also offer programs tailored to the needs of these industries.

Research and Innovation: Ohio is not just a hub for traditional logistics and manufacturing but also a center for innovation in these sectors. Research institutions and industry clusters focused on advanced manufacturing, supply chain optimization, and logistics technologies are thriving in the state.

Impressive Statistics

1. Growing Investment

Record-Breaking Venture Capital Funding in Ohio

In 2021, Ohio achieved a significant milestone in its economic landscape, with venture capital funding reaching an impressive $2.37 billion, according to JobOhio’s statistics.

A Hub for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

This remarkable figure reflects the state’s growing prominence as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The substantial influx of venture capital speaks to Ohio’s thriving business ecosystem, where startups and established companies alike are gaining access to the resources they need to flourish.

Fostering Growth and Innovation

This infusion of funding not only supports the growth of existing businesses but also fosters an environment where new and innovative ideas can take root and thrive.

Ohio’s Thriving Manufacturing Sector

Ohio’s burgeoning manufacturing sector, as indicated by the concurrent increase in manufacturing GDP, further solidifies its position as a dynamic and forward-looking player in the national and global economy.

2. Booming Industries

Several industries are thriving in Ohio, including healthcare, technology, and manufacturing. These sectors offer lucrative opportunities for startups to carve out their niche and make a significant impact.

Intel’s $20 Billion Investment in Semiconductor Manufacturing

Intel’s $20 billion investment in semiconductor manufacturing represents a significant and transformative move for both the company and the broader tech industry, as reported in various news outlets and official statements from Intel. This substantial investment underscores Intel’s commitment to regaining its leadership in semiconductor manufacturing, especially in the face of growing competition from other global chip manufacturers, a fact supported by industry analysts and experts.

The impact of this investment extends beyond Intel’s own operations, as stated in Intel’s official announcements. It is seen as a strategic step to bolster the United States’ position in the semiconductor industry, a sentiment echoed by government officials and industry leaders.

The investment is also widely reported to be expected to create thousands of jobs, both directly within Intel and indirectly through its supply chain, providing an economic boost to the regions where these facilities will be located, as mentioned in multiple economic reports.

3. Job Creation

Startups play a crucial role in job creation, and Ohio is no exception. A study by the Ohio Development Services Agency revealed that startups in the state have created over 40,000 jobs in the past five years. This not only benefits the economy but also provides employment opportunities for local residents.

4. Cost-Effective Living

Compared to startup hubs on the East and West Coasts, Ohio offers a significantly lower cost of living. This means that entrepreneurs can stretch their investment dollars further, allowing for more sustainable growth without the burden of exorbitant expenses.

5.Educational Institutions Fueling Innovation

Ohio’s universities and research institutions are powerhouses of innovation. With over 200 colleges and universities across the state, including Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Cincinnati, there’s no shortage of intellectual capital. These institutions are hubs for groundbreaking research, providing startups with access to cutting-edge technology and research partnerships.