Economic Development

Amazon is expanding operations in Ohio, with the planned opening of two fulfillment centers in Akron and Rossford, the latter a suburb of Toledo. The centers are expected to create more than 2,500 full-time jobs. Amazon already employs more than 8,500 workers statewide.

The 2019 Paris Air Show, held last month, proved to be a big winner for Cincinnati-based CFM International. The aircraft engine maker closed on over 1,150 of its LEAP engines, along with long-term service agreements, for a total value of $50.2 million.

An iconic dairy brand is returning to Ohio after more than two decades. That’s because Borden is now distributing its products in the state after a 24-year absence. Borden milk was reintroduced in schools around Ohio last year and is now available at retailers throughout the state.

When the first phase of Easton Town Center in Columbus opened 20 years ago, it was 600,000 square feet of development on 30 acres. Now, developers are planning a $500 million addition in the next four years, using 1 million square feet on a comparatively scant 16 acres.

Akron is helping businesses in local neighborhoods to receive loans and grants for civic improvement. Called the Great Streets Initiative, the program aims to bring business and vibrancy back to small-business districts or “mini downtowns” in 10 neighborhoods.

The economic development organization JobsOhio has a new president and chief investment officer in J.P. Nauseef, who has 30 years of experience in growing businesses in public, private and nonprofit sectors. Nauseef began his role after serving as president and CEO of the Dayton Development Coalition, a JobsOhio regional partner.

Ohio was one of the top states for corporate expansions last year with several cities landing multiple projects, according to Site Selection magazine’s widely watched annual rankings.

Elevate Greater Akron is a strategic plan that’s the product of a partnership among four entities – the City of Akron, County of Summit, Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce and GAR Foundation. They came together in 2017 to create a transformative and collaborative economic development system for the region. It starts with a focus on the City of Akron.

It’s Columbus, according to Money Magazine. The magazine ranks Columbus as the 10th-best large city to live in based on attractions, low cost of living and promising job growth. The publication chose cities with populations of 300,000 or more.