A Transformative Year and an Exciting Future for Ohio Life Sciences

Reflecting on our accomplishments in 2024, I’m truly inspired by the dedication of our innovators, researchers, business leaders, and advocates, all of whom are instrumental in driving our mission forward to advocate, build and connect with our members as they innovate, grow, and succeed.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are ready to further empower our members and elevate Ohio’s life sciences ecosystem with exciting new initiatives, member benefits and resources. Here’s a preview of what’s to come:

Advocate

We will continue to advocate for policies and financial support that position Ohio as a global leader in life sciences. This includes engaging directly with Ohio legislators and federal policymakers in Washington, D.C. to protect and advance the interests of our members

• We’re focused on securing transformational funding in the Ohio state budget to advance Ohio’s life sciences workforce development initiatives and will host advocacy days at the Ohio Statehouse.
• We will also provide more opportunities for members to engage directly with federal and state legislators, join us on February 25 as we head to the statehouse to discuss OLS fuding. RSVP HERE.

Build

Workforce development will continue to be a primary focus as we launch new initiatives, expand educational partnerships, and advocate for critical funding to ensure a sustainable talent pipeline.

• Just last week, we launched our innovative BioPathways program, providing K-12 teachers with the tools to inspire and prepare students for rewarding careers in life sciences.
• We will continue our Biotechnology Bootcamps with Columbus State Community College and are exploring opportunities to hold bootcamps in other regions.
• We will launch a comprehensive talent solution, connecting job seekers at all levels—including factory, technical, and professional roles—with key resources and employers in the fast-growing life sciences industry.
• We’re anchoring the Columbus Innovation District with our new Life Sciences Industry Hub and Training Center, which will further drive collaboration and position Ohio at the forefront of biotech, healthcare, and agricultural research.

Connect

• We’re committed to building stronger connections, facilitating networking, and providing valuable resources for our members in every corner of the state, like on February 26 in Cincinnati and February 27 in Cleveland. Watch for new opportunities to connect inside and outside of the Ohio Discovery Corridor in Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati.
• We’ll continue to provide our members with enhanced insights through the Ohio Life Sciences Report, tracking employment, investment, industry trends, economic impact and workforce data and resources all to inform strategic decisions, like the Life Sciences Industry Assessment & Economic Impact Reportreleased last week.
• The Advantage Purchasing Program will expand, providing exclusive discounts on lab supplies, energy, medical gases, and more to help businesses reinvest in growth.

Your support and engagement make all of this possible. I am incredibly optimistic about the future of life sciences in Ohio. Together, we are driving life-saving innovations, fostering economic growth, and improving health outcomes across Ohio and beyond.