Dayton region ranked first for economic development projects

Economy Linen and Towel Service's new facility on McCall Street in West Dayton could open next month. CORNELIUS FROLIK / STAFF

Economy Linen and Towel Service's new facility on McCall Street in West Dayton could open next month. CORNELIUS FROLIK / STAFF

The Dayton metropolitan area ranked first for cities its size for economic development projects in 2021, according to Site Selection magazine’s ranking of US cities.

It was the 16th consecutive year the magazine has ranked the region in the top 10 and the fifth time it was ranked the top, the Dayton Development Coalition said.

“A month ago, we celebrated a record year for job creation in 2021. Our first-place finish represents not only the hard work of economic development professionals throughout our community, but how the Dayton region shapes its own future,” said Jeff Hoagland, president and CEO of the Dayton Development Coalition. “We have the industry, education, and talent to fuel growth. If you like great people, abundant resources, a central location, and a winning game plan, come join us in Dayton.”

Site Selection ranks cities and states each year based on the number of economic development projects in their region. Projects factored into the rankings include those with any combination of state, regional and local incentives, as well as those that do not receive any type of assistance.

The Dayton Development Coalition said the results indicate a strong state and regional business climate, even as the region weathered a second year of a global pandemic.

“I am so proud that Dayton continues to be a leader in attracting new corporate facilities and businesses. This is great indicator of the amazing work that has been accomplished in economic development for our region,” said Dayton Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims Jr. “Helping develop a skilled workforce is a key focus of my agenda and I am excited that these types of opportunities continue to grow within our region.”

In 2021, the Dayton region saw new companies choose the area for growth and existing companies like Economy Line, Royal Canin, and Starwin Industries announce expansions. Gabriel Brothers, Pak-Rite, and Surati all committed to new facilities in the region.

“The Dayton region should be extremely proud of its top finish in the Governor’s Cup. This is a real testament to our local economic development professionals” said Doug Compton, chair of the Coalition’s Board of Trustees and Dayton City Executive at Fifth Third Bank. “As we strive to grow and diversify our regional economy, this recognition highlights our team’s effort to grow the region’s economy and connect businesses to the resources they need to succeed.”

Ohio ranked second among all states for total projects and was third in the nation for projects per capita, according to Site Selection.

The state’s economic development efforts are led by JobsOhio, a private non-profit. The DDC is one of JobsOhio’s six regional network partners.

“Companies from around the world are benefiting from doing business in the Dayton Region,” said Carolyn Rice, Montgomery County Commission President. “This top ranking exemplifies the work of our regional partners to build a diverse economy and create great jobs for our residents.”

The Atlanta-based magazine has awarded the Governor’s Cup annually since 1988, based on new and expanded corporate facilities as tracked by the proprietary Conway Projects Database.

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