Skip to content

日本、オハイオへ ようこそ

Japan, Meet Ohio

Let’s Grow, Together

Ohio has spent decades building lasting relationships with Japanese companies — grounded in trust, shared commitment, and a long-term approach to growth. Just look at Honda’s decision to establish its first U.S. manufacturing operation in Ohio more than 40 years ago. It set the foundation for a partnership that continues to grow today, with ongoing investments in electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing, and communities across the state. Companies such as Pharmavite and Forge Biologics have added to that momentum, demonstrating the breadth and depth of Japanese investment in Ohio. 

Ohio offers Japanese companies the advantages they need to compete and grow in the U.S.: a highly skilled workforce, an advantageous Midwest location, world-class manufacturing capabilities, integrated infrastructure, and a business environment built for long-term success. Just as important, companies find partners committed to building lasting relationships. JobsOhio and its statewide partners have an organized process to support your business needs, from site selection and expansion to connecting you with the talent, resources, and communities that help your business thrive in the long term.

Success Stories

Working Together in Ohio

Honda

New research institute expands Honda legacy in Ohio

Pharmavite

The growth of gummies: Pharmavite’s $200M investment in Ohio
hands on top of solar panels

Pilkington North America

Redefining operational capacities and innovation trajectories

Why Japanese Companies Find Success in Ohio

#1 in Top States for Business in 2025: Infrastructure
#1 state for business (CNBC)
#1 cost of doing business (CNBC)
#1 state in the Midwest for life science grads
#1 manufacturing workforce in the Midwest, #3 in the nation
HONDA logo
Forge Biologics logo
HONDA logo
Forge Biologics logo
HONDA logo
Forge Biologics logo

Meet Team Japan

Headshot of Satoshi Takayama

Satoshi Takayama 

JobsOhio Consultant, Japan


"Team Ohio has been an invaluable partner in helping us engage with Ohio’s workforce. They established an OhioMeansJobs recruitment center just two miles from our facility, giving us direct access to a broad range of job seekers."
Craig Fultz / Human Resources Lead, LGES-Honda
"We chose New Albany for this significant investment after an extensive search. We’re proud to be a part of the emerging science, innovation, and technology hub in Central Ohio, and honored to be welcomed into the wellness-focused community."
Jeff Boutelle / CEO Pharmavite

Why Japanese Companies Keep Choosing Ohio for U.S. Growth

Ohio has become a proven home for Japanese companies looking to establish, expand, or strengthen their presence in the U.S. From automotive and advanced manufacturing to consumer products, chemicals, life sciences, and glass, Japanese businesses are expanding operations across the state and alongside the talent, infrastructure, and industrial ecosystem needed to compete in a global market.

Today, Japanese-owned businesses operate hundreds of facilities across Ohio and directly support tens of thousands of jobs in Ohio. 

That momentum is built on decades of partnership. Companies including Topre, Kao, Pilkington North America, Sunstar Engineering, and Newman Technology continue to invest and grow. JobsOhio and its regional partners provide the connections and customized support international companies need to move from opportunity to operation — and from operation to long-term growth.

Get Started