Ohio Life Sciences had the pleasure of cohosting an event and panel at DesignGroup’s brand-new offices at The Peninsula in downtown Columbus, and the event doubled as a soft opening for their stunning new space.
To say the space is impressive would be an understatement. But then again, this is DesignGroup we’re talking about. With locations in Columbus, Pittsburgh, and Indianapolis, the firm is known for designing buildings that create inspirational spaces to work, live, learn, and heal. Speaking of healing, when DesignGroup hosts its official grand opening this September, don’t miss their office wellness room. It feels less like a corner of a workplace and more like stepping into a high-end spa. RSVP to their event HERE.
The Main Event: A Deep Dive into the Life Science Ready Community Designation
Beautiful backdrop aside, we gathered for a purpose: to talk about the Ohio Life Science Ready Community Designation and why it matters for communities across the state.
We brought together a fantastic panel, moderated by Brandon Reese, Senior Business Development Leader at DesignGroup, featuring:
- Eddie Pauline, President & CEO, Ohio Life Sciences
- Rachel Ray, Economic Development Director, City of Westerville
- Tyler Allchin, Managing Director, Healthcare, JobsOhio
- Matt McCollister, Senior Director of Economic Development, The Montrose Group
Each panelist brought a distinct perspective on why this designation matters and how it positions site leaders for greater visibility, and positions Ohio more competitively on the national stage.
“The life sciences industry drives real economic prosperity, new jobs, new technology, medicines that change lives. Too few municipal and economic development leaders fully understand how to position their communities to attract it. Our Life Sciences Ready Community designation closes that gap, spotlighting the communities that have done the work to compete for this industry.”
— Eddie Pauline, President & CEO, Ohio Life Sciences Association
Know Your Assets
Rachel emphasized that communities and municipalities don’t need massive tracts of land to be competitive. Instead, it’s about understanding and showcasing what already sets you apart: Do you have the infrastructure? A skilled workforce? Buildings that could be converted for life sciences use? There are many paths to becoming life science ready.
Putting Yourself on the Map
Tyler pointed out that applying for the designation is, in itself, a valuable exercise. It is a step toward discovering exactly what assets a community has to offer. When companies are looking to plant a flag in Ohio, this designation helps them quickly see what’s available and where.
Feedback Is Fuel
Outside of the designation itself, Matt offered a practical, encouraging take on the broader process of winning deals: when your community is on the radar with site selectors as a potential fit, but the answer ultimately comes back as “not right now,” that feedback is still genuinely valuable. It shows communities exactly where to focus their improvements and strengthens their case for a “yes” down the road.
Three Levels, One Goal
The designation currently has three tiers:
- Premier
- Advanced
- Emerging
And the best part? These designations aren’t static. Communities can improve their standing over time. In fact, one community recently used their designation feedback to go back to local stakeholders and pursue a zoning change specifically to improve their score. For a program still in its early stages, that’s exactly the kind of engagement and momentum we hoped to see.
What’s Next
We’re excited about the growth and collaboration ahead as more communities and municipalities get involved. The question is: will you be next?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed quarterly.
- The next meeting of the Life Science Ready Community Designation Review Committee is October 1, 2026.
- To be considered this quarter, please submit your application by September 24, 2026.
A huge thank-you to DesignGroup for hosting us in their beautiful new space, and to our panelists for such a thoughtful conversation. We can’t wait to see which communities step up next.
