The top 10 most-read stories on Ohio Tech News in 2024

Jan 2

In 2024, Ohio tech made headlines with groundbreaking innovations, billion-dollar investments, and initiatives shaping the future of education, manufacturing, and cloud technology. At Ohio Tech News, we’ve dedicated to covering the stories that defined the state’s tech and innovation landscape, and our readers responded in record numbers.

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.

Here’s a look back at the top 10 most-read stories of the year, highlighting the developments that captivated readers and underscored Ohio’s growing tech influence on the national and global stage.

1. State of Ohio Launches Digital Drivers License and ID

Ohio made history by rolling out a digital driver’s license and ID, offering residents a modern, secure alternative to traditional IDs. The new system allows users to carry their IDs on their smartphones, enhancing convenience and security.

2. Cleveland AI Startup Pandata to Be Acquired by Atlanta’s Further

The tech world took notice when Cleveland-based Pandata, known for its AI-driven solutions, was acquired by Atlanta’s Further. The deal highlighted Ohio’s growing role as a hub for innovative AI startups and celebrated Cleveland entrepreneur Cal Al-Dhubaib who founded the company in 2016.

3. Amazon Web Services Announces $10 Billion Data Center Expansion in Ohio

AWS continued its massive commitment to Ohio with a $10 billion investment to expand its data center infrastructure across the state. This project continues to bolster Ohio’s position as a leader in cloud technology and marked the second-largest private sector investment in the state’s history.

4. Ohio in Running for Anduril's Groundbreaking Defense Manufacturing Facility

Ohio emerged as a leading contender for Anduril’s latest defense manufacturing facility, which would bring cutting-edge innovation and significant economic benefits to the state in the growing DefenseTech space.

5. Microsoft Expands in Ohio with $420 Million New Albany Data Center

Microsoft’s announcement of a $420 million data center in New Albany was a major highlight, showcasing the state’s appeal to global tech giants. This news bolstered the state’s role as a growing cloud computing infrastructure hub.

6. State of Ohio Announces High School Tech Internship Program

Ohio has become a leader in tech education and the state’s innovative program connecting high school students with tech internships is helping prepare the next generation for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and other fields.

7. Ohio Awards $86 Million to Venture Capital Funds

To fuel innovation and support startup growth, Ohio allocated $86 million to venture capital funds, providing crucial support to startups and boosting the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

8. Ohio Must Encourage Innovation and Protect Privacy: Op-Ed by State Representative Steve Demetriou

In this widely-read opinion piece, State Representative Steve Demetriou outlined the importance of balancing innovation with privacy, emphasizing policies that foster growth while safeguarding residents’ data.

9. Path Robotics Raises $100 Million Series D to Drive AI-Enabled Robotic Welding Growth

Path Robotics, an AI-driven robotics startup based in Ohio, secured $100 million in Series D funding, furthering its mission to revolutionize manufacturing through automation.

10. Intel’s 10 Biggest Projects Around the World—Including in Ohio

Intel’s expansion in Ohio was spotlighted as part of its global growth strategy, underscoring the state’s role in advancing semiconductor manufacturing.

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The bottom line: From billion-dollar investments by global tech giants to innovative programs that nurture the next generation of talent, 2024 showcased Ohio’s rapid ascent as a technology and innovation leader. These top stories highlight the state’s growing influence on the national stage, its ability to attract transformative projects, and its commitment to fostering a thriving tech ecosystem. As Ohio continues to build momentum, the future looks brighter than ever for the state’s tech-driven economy.

Ohio Tech News