Ohio’s rise to the top of CNBC’s 2026 ranking reflects something economic development leaders have understood for years. The state’s manufacturing base is a major competitive advantage.

In a new Columbus Dispatch column, Rick Platt, president and CEO of the Heath-Newark-Licking County Port Authority, points to Ohio’s deep industrial base, infrastructure, energy resources, market access and business climate as the advantages that keep the state on the short list for major investment. He also notes that site selectors increasingly expect Ohio to be part of the conversation when companies are deciding where to grow.

“Manufacturing is not simply part of Ohio’s success story. It is the reason Ohio leads,” Platt writes, echoing the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association’s response to CNBC naming Ohio the No. 1 state for business in 2026.

The message is straightforward. Ohio’s manufacturing strength helped build this advantage, and keeping it will depend on protecting the conditions that make companies want to invest, expand and hire here. 8/10/2026