The O.H.I.O. Fund invests in Dublin-based EASE Logistics to expand AI innovation
Image: Peter Coratola Jr., EASE Logistics
The O.H.I.O. Fund, a private investment adviser focused on accelerating Ohio’s economic growth, has made a minority investment in EASE Logistics, a Dublin-based freight and logistics company recognized nationally for its technology and innovation.
EASE has become one of Ohio’s standout growth stories, appearing eight times on the Inc. 5000 list and earning the top spot among transportation companies on Fortune’s 2023 “America’s Most Innovative Companies.” The new investment will help the company further expand its artificial intelligence capabilities and strengthen its position as a leader in tech-enabled logistics.
Why it matters
The investment highlights how Ohio’s logistics and manufacturing sectors are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence to gain efficiency and scale.
For The O.H.I.O. Fund, it reflects a growing focus on AI as a strategic economic driver — one that connects the state’s industrial strengths with emerging digital infrastructure.
“EASE already has strong leadership and a drive for innovation,” said Mark Kvamme, CEO and Chief Investment Officer of The O.H.I.O. Fund. “With this investment, EASE can further expand its AI technology and capabilities, allowing it to remain at the forefront of the logistics industry with cutting-edge, improved customer service.”
The details
EASE Logistics will use the funding to expand its AI and automation capabilities in partnership with Jakib.ai, a Columbus-based applied AI startup. Together, the companies are developing a proprietary AI agent that will enhance internal operations, improve decision-making, and personalize customer experiences.
“By expanding our AI capabilities, we’ll create smarter, faster, and more connected solutions while ensuring our people and customers remain at the core of everything we do,” said Peter Coratola Jr., the Founder, President, and CEO of EASE Logistics.
EASE’s focus on AI follows its continued expansion in freight management, digital logistics, and tech-enabled customer service, a combination that has made it one of central Ohio’s most recognized growth companies.
The big picture
The O.H.I.O. Fund’s investment thesis centers on fueling growth in key sectors where Ohio already leads, such as advanced manufacturing, biotech, real estate, and infrastructure, while adding new momentum around AI.
Its backing of EASE Logistics illustrates how local capital, innovative founders, and applied AI are converging to redefine traditional industries and strengthen Ohio’s position as a national logistics and technology hub.