That’s the mission statement for the Ohio Department of Development, and it’s what we work toward every day. Our values fit that mission statement. We strive to be:

• Bold
• Diverse
• Responsive
• Solution-focused

Our work is aimed at helping Ohio businesses, communities, and individuals thrive. We know that Ohio is the best state to live, learn, work, innovate, and play, and we strive to improve on that every day. Our programs and employees can have an impact on the lives of many Ohioans, and we take that responsibility to heart. Here are some of the ways we serve Ohioans:

Strategic Investment Division: Supports Ohio's businesses, large and small, as they maneuver in the global economy. Whether a company is established in the state and looking to expand, a technology company ready to move from the lab to commercialization, or an entrepreneur establishing a small retail business, we have resources to assist these businesses as they grow.

Minority Business Development Division: Supports the growth and sustainability of small, minority, and disadvantaged businesses in Ohio. The Division provides technical and professional assistance, access to capital and bonding, and connection to business opportunities through the Minority Business Assistance Centers (MBAC). It also works to ensure that state reaches its 15% MBE set-aside requirement.

Community Services Division: Helps build strong communities in Ohio. With reliable infrastructure and strong, vibrant downtowns, Ohio communities provide an environment for entrepreneurship and job creation as well as a strong quality of life for residents. In addition, through programs such as HWAP, HEAP, and PIPP Plus, Ohioans can access assistance and improve their energy efficiency.

Governor’s Office of Appalachia: Advocates for Ohio’s Appalachian region, the office works to coordinate economic and community development and partnership endeavors in the 32-county region.

TourismOhio: Promotes Ohio as a place to live, work, and play through the TourismOhio office and the Ohio. Find It Here. brand.

Research: Provides data and analysis on the economic, industrial, demographic, and program trends of the state of Ohio, its businesses, and its people. Through reports, maps, and databases, businesses and individuals can find descriptive data on the economic activities of Ohio as well as the population trends of cities, villages, townships, and counties. The Research Office also acts as the state government liaison to the U.S. Bureau of the Census.

Through this work and more, Development is focused on improving lives and communities throughout Ohio. Remember, at Development, we’re here to help.