Corprorate Innovation
Honda invests $2.6 million to expand research at Ohio State
Honda is opening a new Advanced Materials Science Lab at Ohio State’s SciTech Campus—a $2.6 million expansion backed by JobsOhio.
Columbus
Artificial Intelligence
Ohio State launches AI(X) Hub to lead next era of artificial intelligence research
The Ohio State University launched the AI(X) Hub ("AI to the power of X") to accelerate AI research, innovation, and education. The university-wide initiative connects 15 colleges and focuses on six critical pillars, including health, engineering, agriculture, cybersecurity, and trustworthy AI.
Startups + VC
Vessel-backed Heylo appoints Brian Hart as CEO to scale tech-driven disability support
Ohio tech company Heylo, built in Vessel Shipyard, aims to modernize care for people with I/DD. New CEO Brian Hart will scale Heylo's platform, which uses software/hardware to deliver remote supports, boosting independence and easing the human services workforce pressure.
Startups + VC
Techstars Columbus turns 2, welcomes Fall 2025 cohort
Techstars Columbus Powered by OSU marks its two-year anniversary with its fourth cohort launch. Since 2023, the accelerator backed 42 companies, invested nearly $6M, and helped its portfolio raise four times that amount, creating tens of millions in market value.
Out of Office
Out of Office with Ben Blanquera: Tech, trails, and impact
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.
Columbus
AI Meets Gene Therapy: AlignAI, Andelyn Biosciences collaborate to enable AI safely
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.
Columbus
Tyler Technologies acquires Columbus-based Emergency Networking
Tyler Technologies has acquired Columbus-based Emergency Networking, a pioneer in cloud-native SaaS for fire and EMS agencies. The acquisition is strategic, as it helps agencies meet the new NERIS federal reporting standards required for all U.S. departments by January 1, 2026.
Startups + VC
Vessel launches new Studio Fund to build the Midwest’s next great startups
Vessel launched its Flagship Studio Fund, anchored by Mark Kvamme’s O.H.I.O. Fund, to build six startups from scratch. The first, Cincinnati-based Heylo, is already live. This operator-led model aims to construct innovation in the Midwest, moving beyond traditional backing to active building.
Columbus
Ohio Chamber hosts 2025 Exploring AI Summit in Columbus
The Ohio Chamber of Commerce will convene business, policy, and technology leaders this Wednesday for the 2025 Exploring AI Summit, a full-day event focused on the growing impact of artificial intelligence across Ohio’s economy. Held at the Chamber’s downtown Columbus headquarters, the event will feature keynotes, panels,
Startups + VC
Tech billionaires choose Ohio for new crypto-focused bank backed by Luckey, Lonsdale, and Thiel
Tech titans, including backing by Peter Thiel, Palmer Luckey, and Joe Lonsdale, are launching Erebor, a crypto-focused bank headquartered in Columbus. Filling the gap left by SVB for AI and defense startups, the move is a major vote of confidence in Ohio’s rising innovation economy.
Columbus
Ohio State launches AI fluency initiative to transform learning
[caption id align="alignnone" width="1802"] Photo: The Ohio State University [/caption] The Ohio State University has unveiled a comprehensive AI Fluency initiative, aiming to integrate artificial intelligence education across all undergraduate programs. Starting with the Class of 2029, every student will graduate with foundational AI
Columbus
Anduril closes $2.5 billion fundraise as Ohio’s Arsenal-1 project gains momentum
Defense technology company Anduril Industries has secured $2.5 billion in a Series G funding round, elevating its valuation to $30.5 billion. This significant investment comes as the development of Arsenal-1, Anduril's advanced manufacturing facility in Pickaway County, Ohio continues to pick up steam. Founders Fund