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Columbus tech Archives - thinkCSC

Nov 10
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thinkCSC Leadership Series: Columbus Ranks High for Millennials

By | thinkCSC Leadership Series

columbus-898928_640I’ve written before about what a great place Ohio is to do business, and we’re delighted that Columbus was named as one of the top 7 Intelligent Cities of 2015, but as the leader of a business that relies on innovation, the latest accolade for Columbus is truly worth celebrating.

In September 2015, Money named the top five cities for millennials, and once again, Columbus made the cut. Money focused on cities where:

  • Job growth is above average
  • The cost of living (food, rent, and other necessities) is affordable
  • The concentrations of grocery stores, pharmacies, laundromats, and other amenities is high
  • Loads of fun bars, restaurants, and leisure activities are offered

Coming in just behind Austin and Atlanta, Columbus is the only Midwest town to be listed. Also on the list were Tucson and Seattle. More than a fourth of Columbus residents belong to the millennial generation; Money contributes the attraction for this demographic in part to our great parks, sports, food, and public transportation. I would like to think that the draw is also because of the great companies and schools we have in the Columbus area. Downtown Columbus is becoming a tech and creative cluster, with more than 1,800 jobs projected to be added. Ohio University and Columbus State University are working together to provide more affordable education options, which will help more students obtain the higher education they need.

One of the main drivers behind the success of Columbus on all fronts is Columbus 2020. Columbus 2020 is the economic development organization serving the Columbus Region, which encompasses 11 counties. The organization works with state and local partners to achieve economic growth. As Kenny McDonald, Columbus 2020 CEO, explains, “The Columbus region has a diverse, growing economy and population base. Growth is poised to continue due to a young, educated workforce, aggressive economic-development efforts and geographic and institutional advantages.”

thinkCSC is a proud investor in Columbus 2020 and believes in the 2020 initiative. We are committed to the idea that Columbus is the best place to do business and that business owners, entrepreneurs, and millennials will thrive in our city. We appreciate having the opportunity to share our Columbus stories with those businesses considering a move to Columbus. Learn more about Columbus 2020.

Nov 13
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Ohio: A Great State to Do Business

By | thinkCSC Leadership Series | No Comments

by Tom Hastings

OhioOhio has once again been represented as one of the best states to do business, according to Site Selection magazine, and is now ranked as the fourth best state in 2013. Corporate site selector surveys account for 50 percent of the ranking; the remaining percentage is based on criteria that includes competitiveness rank, qualified projects and firms’ state tax burden. Columbus has also been recognized by Forbes as one of the best cities for tech jobs and one of the best cities for working mothers. Ohio was even named the best state for banking in 2012 by Money Rates.

That’s quite a résumé. But why is Ohio such a great state in which to do business?

As a business owner and long-time resident of the state, I believe a combination of factors make Ohio a great state for business development. Not only do the state and city leaders work tirelessly to create opportunity, support businesses and encourage our talented graduates to stay in Ohio after they graduate, but there is a singular focus on innovation in Ohio.

Ohio is the home of two of the world’s greatest innovators, Orville and Wilbur Wright, who owned and operated a bicycle repair shop in Dayton while they endeavored to build a flying machine. And since their time, Ohio has continued to emphasize technology, innovation and smart growth. In a PR Newswire article, the Ohio Business Development Coalition and former Governor Ted Strickland cite a number of advances in education, technology and the state tax structure that account for Ohio’s successful business climate.

Businesses enjoy other advantages in Ohio. The state is centrally located, having access to the greater percentage of the U.S. population; given the abundance academic institutions, the state touts a large talent pool from which to draw; the aforementioned business-friendly tax environment gives businesses a distinct advantage; and the community offers a great deal of support. And did I mention that the quality of life in Ohio is phenomenal?

Whether you are just beginning to build your business or have already established a successful business in Ohio, you already know the truth: Ohio is a good place for business.