American businesses are investing heavily in machinery and equipment, delivering an encouraging signal for manufacturers as demand for industrial products continues to grow.

New orders for core capital goods rose 0.5% in September, while shipments jumped 1.2%, according to Reuters. Orders were up 10.9% from a year earlier, reflecting continued momentum in business investment.

Spending on artificial intelligence infrastructure is helping drive demand for industrial machinery, electrical components and advanced manufacturing equipment. The investment surge is creating opportunities across Ohio’s manufacturing supply chain, from machinery producers to companies supplying the materials and components behind major projects.

“When businesses invest in equipment, they’re investing in American manufacturing,” said Jacob Sargent, director of public policy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “Ohio makes the machinery, components and materials that turn those investments into new production capacity. That’s a good sign for our state’s economy.” 10/27/2026