Ohio’s startup scene just got a fresh infusion of early-stage capital. 71/70 Angels, a new Columbus-based fund, has closed its first round and already placed bets on two tech startups—a signal of growing momentum for seed-stage investment in the Midwest. Backed by nearly 50 investors and supported
Governor DeWine announced a $7.1 million investment to expand career-connected learning for Ohio students. The two-year funding boosts career-technical education and mentoring, preparing students for high-wage, in-demand jobs and strengthening school/business partnerships.
The third annual Ohio VC Fest ’25 will bring top investors, founders, and leaders to Cleveland next month. Produced by JumpStart, the conference is a can't-miss event, highlighting Ohio's growing role in technology and innovation for those shaping the state's future.
JobsOhio launched the Relocation Incentive, offering employers $15,000 for each qualified STEM or technical hire who moves to Ohio. Capped at $225,000 per company, the program aims to bolster the workforce to fill hundreds of thousands of new STEM and technical jobs by 2032.
Youngstown
SoftBank purchased Foxconn's massive Lordstown facility for $375M. Foxconn will convert the site into a hub for AI server and cloud computing hardware production. The deal links Lordstown to SoftBank's $500 billion "Stargate" data center initiative with OpenAI and Oracle.
Out of Office
Rackspace VP Ben Blanquera has seen Ohio's tech evolution for 25 years. He advises global enterprises on hybrid cloud, AI strategy, and modernization. In Columbus, he's a mentor and champion of the Midwest innovation ecosystem, continually driving the region forward.
Ohio's House Bill 96 sets a new standard for public sector resilience. Following major cyberattacks, the rules mandate all local governments implement cybersecurity policies and publicly approve ransomware payments, demanding coordinated, preventive action against systemic cyber risks.
The O.H.I.O. Fund hit a $238 million first-year milestone, fueling Ohio's next economy. The fund backs the companies, talent, and infrastructure building the state's future, reinforcing its innovation legacy and capitalizing on a new era of opportunity for its $900B economy.
Columbus
Columbus-based Andelyn Biosciences and AlignAI are partnering to safely integrate AI into gene therapy manufacturing. By focusing on AI governance and data security, the collaboration ensures that sensitive IP remains protected while separating tech hype from real value.
Cincinnati
Cincinnati-based Pantomath raised $30M in Series B funding to automate enterprise data operations. Backed by General Catalyst, the startup is expanding its platform to eliminate manual troubleshooting and become the AI-driven operating system for autonomous data reliability.
SkillSpout™ is tackling AI adoption with MomentumAI™, a structured rollout program focused on change management and policy co-creation. Led by Melanie McGee, the initiative provides on-site training that is fully fundable through the State of Ohio’s TechCred program.
Artificial Intelligence
Foxconn will transform the former Lordstown Motors EV plant into a major hub for AI server and cloud computing hardware. While the facility was sold for $375M, the company remains on-site to lead this strategic shift, positioning Ohio as a key player in global tech infrastructure.