The Dayton region has always punched above its weight. In 2025, it did so with clarity, confidence, and momentum — and that matters far beyond southwest Ohio.
What we’re seeing in Dayton isn’t accidental. It’s the result of long-term alignment between industry, workforce, military assets, and regional leadership that understands how to compete in a global economy.
During the Dayton Business Journal’s 2026 Economic Forum, I spoke about why Dayton stood out — and why it’s central to Ohio’s strategy heading into 2026.
A Mid-Size City Getting National Recognition
While Dayton will always be known for its historical importance as the birthplace of aviation, it’s starting to gain a new reputation as “The Birthplace of Next.” And the rest of the country is now taking notice:
#3 in up-and-coming tech talent markets in the U.S. in CBRE’s Tech Talent Report
#3 in emerging tech markets in North America (Site Selection Magazine)
#4 in Forbes Top 20 Metros for Young Professionals (Ohio has six cities in the top 20, the most of any state!)
#10 most affordable mid-sized city (Business Facilities)
A National Anchor for Aerospace & Defense
Dayton’s deep ties to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base continue to drive innovation in aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing. Companies aren’t just locating here — they’re scaling here because the ecosystem supports long-term growth, R&D, and mission-critical work.
Talent That Meets the Moment
The Dayton region’s strength has always been its people. In 2025, workforce partnerships, higher-ed collaboration, and veteran talent pipelines helped employers move faster and hire smarter. That alignment is a competitive advantage companies feel immediately.
Manufacturing with a Future Focus
Dayton is proving that modern manufacturing isn’t about legacy — it’s about evolution. Advanced materials, automation, and next-generation production facilities like Joby Aviation, Sierra Nevada Corporation and Anduril are taking root because the region understands how to adapt while preserving its industrial core.
Collaboration That Converts Strategy into Results
What sets Dayton apart is how consistently regional partners work together — local communities, universities, industry leaders, and JobsOhio — with a shared focus on execution. That collaboration turns opportunity into outcomes, as proved by the groundbreaking of the $76 million OnMain project at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, which will attract new capital investment and jobs in the region.
As we look to 2026, Dayton will continue to play a critical role in Ohio’s economic trajectory. The region is well-positioned for continued growth in aerospace, defense, advanced manufacturing, and innovation-driven sectors that will define the next decade.
Momentum matters. And Dayton has it.