Avandra Imaging, a Cleveland-area startup, has raised $17.75 million to expand its federated network for de-identified medical imaging data. Co-founded by Aegis Ventures and led by CEO Ryan Tarzy, the company aims to improve access to imaging data for healthcare and AI research. Investors include Aegis Ventures, SpringRock Ventures, and MemorialCare Innovation Fund.

Women in Analytics (WIA) and Women in Data™ (WiD) are uniting to expand opportunities in AI and data science through the 2025 DataConnect Conference Series. The partnership brings together 30,000+ global members, fostering education, mentorship, and collaboration. Events will take place in San Francisco (May) and Columbus (October), focusing on AI innovation and data quality.

Ohio’s 80 Acres Farms secured $115 million to expand retail partnerships, ingredient development, and plant science research. The company also acquired Plantae Biosciences, integrating its innovations into Infinite Acres Israel to advance crop breeding. With 1,500+ retail partners and a commitment to 100% renewable energy, 80 Acres Farms is scaling its impact and reinforcing Ohio’s leadership in AgTech.

Anduril Industries is in talks to raise $2.5 billion, pushing its valuation to $28 billion. This comes as the defense tech company invests $900 million in Arsenal-1, a massive 5 million-square-foot manufacturing facility near Columbus. The site will create 4,000+ jobs by 2035, producing autonomous military systems and AI-driven defense technology. Ohio’s skilled workforce, infrastructure, and growing defense sector make it a prime location for Anduril’s expansion.

Columbus has been ranked among North America’s top 10 emerging tech hubs, according to Site Selection Magazine. The city’s data center boom, fueled by major investments from companies like AWS, Google, and Meta, is driving growth in cloud computing and AI infrastructure. With low-cost power, strong fiber connectivity, and pro-business policies, Columbus is cementing itself as a leader in the digital economy.

In a rapidly evolving aerospace industry, hydrogen is emerging as a game-changer for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). In a new Ohio Tech News op-ed, Bob Tanner, Executive Director of Aerospace Partnerships at Parallax Advanced Research, explores how hydrogen propulsion can overcome key limitations in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, enabling longer flights, reducing emissions, and transforming air transportation.

Tech startups often face a unique challenge: turning great ideas into thriving businesses. While engineers and developers may excel at creating innovative products, they often lack the knowledge to secure funding, develop effective marketing strategies, or scale operations. That’s where the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI) steps in. Through its EVOLVE Technology Entrepreneurship Program, YBI provides vital support to Ohio’s tech entrepreneurs.

AI is shaping the future of industries, and  is at the forefront, guiding organizations through this transformative journey with a focus on innovation, governance  and security. “We believe AI will be the ultimate business differentiator,” says Tim Hoolihan, a leader in Centric’s AI consulting practice.

Blue Abyss, a United Kingdom-based global leader in extreme environment research and training, has entered into a Space Act Agreement with NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Brook Park, Ohio. The partnership is designed to advance commercial space training and research, bolstering U.S. leadership in space exploration and innovation.

Technology is continually reshaping industries, and Dressit, a startup founded by former bridal boutique owner Becca Wenning, is no different. Wenning created Dressit, inspired by a decade of bridal boutique operation, to bridge the gap between online bridal gown inspiration and the in-person boutique experience.

Miami University and Cleveland Clinic have announced a new partnership to advance education in quantum computing, positioning Ohio as a leader in this transformative technology. The collaboration will establish the state’s first specialized degree programs in quantum computing and create opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research at the intersection of technology and healthcare.

Anduril Industries, a global leader in advanced defense manufacturing, has announced plans to build a new 5-million-square-foot manufacturing facility in Ohio. The project, known as "Arsenal-1," is the largest economic development initiative in Ohio’s history, set to create more than 4,000 jobs by 2035 and support critical national defense manufacturing.  The facility will be located in Pickaway County, near Rickenbacker International Airport in Central Ohio.

Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted, who also serves as the Director of the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, has announced that applications are now open for the State of Ohio's 2025 High School Tech Internship program. This initiative is designed to help businesses access critical tech talent while providing high school students with valuable hands-on work experience to jumpstart their careers.

Nichefire, a Cincinnati-based AI-driven cultural intelligence platform, has announced the successful close of a $2.6 million funding round to accelerate its mission of helping businesses stay ahead of emerging trends. Backed by prominent Ohio investors, Nichefire is already utilized by major brands like Walmart, Kraft Heinz, Nestle, and Perfetti Van Melle.

In a landmark development for Southern Ohio, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has selected Jefferson Township in Fayette County as its first data center location outside of central Ohio. This historic decision marks a $5 billion investment commitment to the region through 2030. This is the second mega investment for Fayette County in recent years, adding to the $3.5 billion Honda and LG joint venture EV battery plant that is being built near Jeffersonville.

Google has announced the launch of the Ohio Grid Innovation Fund, a $1 million initiative aimed at bolstering Ohio’s electricity grid and fostering innovative energy solutions. The fund will support projects that improve energy efficiency, enhance grid reliability, and create workforce development opportunities, reinforcing Ohio’s position as a leader in energy modernization.

In today's fast-changing economy, Ohio businesses are tapping into innovative programs to develop their workforce, strengthen teams, and stay competitive. Whether you're looking to train existing employees, attract emerging talent, or engage with untapped workforce potential, Ohio offers robust resources to help you succeed. Here is your guide for 2025.

In 2024, Ohio tech made headlines with groundbreaking innovations, billion-dollar investments, and initiatives shaping the future of education, manufacturing, and cloud technology. From Amazon Web Services’ $10 billion expansion to Microsoft’s latest data center and a landmark digital driver’s license launch, 2024 was a year of major tech growth for Ohio. Stories of local startups making global waves and ambitious public sector programs drew attention to the state’s growing tech hub.

Following the groundbreaking Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies introduced by the NCAA, two former Ohio State cheerleaders have developed an exciting new platform called Five Star Fans. Designed to transform how college sports fans engage with athletes, this Columbus-based startup offers real-time financial support to collegiate players.

Google has its continued its strong commitment to Central Ohio with the announcement of more than $1.1 million in direct grants to 13 local nonprofit organizations. The funding targets critical community needs, including education, STEM initiatives, mental health services, and digital equity programs.