JobsOhio

As AI moves from experimentation to implementation, gaining an edge won't come from simply adopting new tools. It will come from having the right data, clear business objectives, strong governance, and a workforce prepared to use AI effectively.

The latest issue of Smart Business Northeast Ohio explores what it really takes to build an AI-ready organization — and why Ohio is uniquely positioned to lead this next chapter of innovation. JobsOhio will continue that discussion at the AI Impact Forum on August 27, where business leaders will share practical strategies for putting AI to work across their organizations.

Smart Business Team NEO

The Ohio State Fair kicked off this week, and there's something new to experience: the Ohio Agriculture Center.

The new center serves as a home for Ohio's agricultural story, bringing together agricultural organizations, educators, and industry partners in one place. Through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, educational experiences, and great food, visitors can discover the impact of one of Ohio's largest industries.

Highlights include the imAGine Ag Exhibit, Taste of Ohio Café, Ohio Proud Showcase, OVMA Animal Life & Learning Center, and the Ohio State Fair's Horticulture and Floriculture competition.

Visit now through August 9 to celebrate Ohio’s rich agricultural heritage and learn about the innovation shaping the future of farming.

Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio Department of Agriculture, Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds, Ohio State - College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, Tim Derickson

Why is Ohio at the Farnborough International Airshow? Because the world's aerospace and defense leaders are already there — and they're building in Ohio.

CNBC just named Ohio the #1 State for Business in 2026, and our Advanced Aerospace & Defense Super Sector is a big reason why. From Anduril Industries' Arsenal-1 to GE Aerospace and Joby Aviation, companies are choosing Ohio for what no other state can match: a 640+ company supply chain, world-class assets like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and NASA's Glenn Research Center, and a partner in JobsOhio that is directly invested in your growth.

In Ohio, you can dream it, build it, test it, and scale it — all in one state.

Visit us at Hall 1, Booth 1431 to learn how your company can grow here.

Governor Mike DeWine, Dayton Development Coalition, REDI Cincinnati, Team NEO

138 metrics across 10 categories.

CNBC’s America’s Top States for Business study put all 50 states to the test, and Ohio rose to the top.

Ohio ranked #1 overall and in the top 10 in six of the study’s 10 categories.

In 2026, infrastructure was the top-weighted category, with companies prioritizing proximity to customers, site readiness, and abundant energy. New metrics within the category examined the speed at which states are approving permits and the reliability of power grids.

Ohio ranked #1 in the infrastructure and cost of doing business categories. Earning points for its broad market access, SiteOhio Authenticated sites, reliable electrical power, and reasonable insurance and utility costs.

https://www.jobsohio.com/newsroom/news-press/ohio-named-cnbcs-no-1-top-state-for-business

Ohio has been named the #1 state for business in CNBC's 2026 America's Top States for Business rankings. Through a relentless pursuit of excellence, collaboration across Team Ohio, and long-term strategic planning, no state is powering business growth and setting the standard in economic development like Ohio.

The climb from #34 in 2010 to #1 in 2026 didn’t happen overnight. It represents a fundamental transformation in how Ohio is helping businesses grow and thrive.

This recognition belongs to everyone who helped build Ohio's competitive advantage – from state leaders to regional economic development partners to businesses, residents, educators, and communities across the state.

This is what unstoppable feels like. Ohio’s Time is Now.

Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, Ohio Department of Development, Regional Growth Partnership Northwest Ohio, Team NEO, Dayton Development Coalition, Ohio SE, REDI Cincinnati, Lake to River, CNBC

Fifteen years ago, JobsOhio was established with one mission: driving economic development momentum.

Since then, Team Ohio has evolved to meet the needs of a changing state — building Ohio’s future through new investment, job creation, and stronger communities across Ohio. When JobsOhio began, Ohio ranked among the bottom 10 states for doing business. Today, we're in the top five, with our sights set on #1.

Thank you to our partners, elected officials, and the JobsOhio team for making this progress possible.

Ohio’s time is now.

Regional Growth Partnership Northwest Ohio, Team NEO, Dayton Development Coalition, Ohio SE, REDI Cincinnati

Team Ohio celebrated a new chapter for a historic building in Mount Vernon. Founders Food Hall officially opened its doors at 18 E. Vine St. The building was revitalized by Knox County Land Bank and now serves as a vibrant mixed-use hub for:

• Founders Food Hall—a first-of-its-kind culinary incubator in Knox County featuring eight kitchens, a bar, and gathering spaces.

• Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU)—new state-of-the-art facilities for engineering, cybersecurity, robotics, and virtual reality programs—preparing students for careers in Ohio's fastest-growing industries.

• Sponsler Automotive and Otto Insurance Group—both companies have office space in the building.

Supported by a $1 million JobsOhio Vibrant Community Grant, the redevelopment represents a major investment in downtown Mount Vernon and a model for how communities can preserve their history while building for the future.

As one of the top dairy-producing states in the nation, Ohio’s farms produce more than 653 million gallons of milk each year. The state’s dairy industry drives a $30.62 billion economic impact annually, supporting more than 133,200 jobs and strengthening communities across Ohio.

Ohio Department of Agriculture Ohio Farm Bureau Tim Derickson