FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 16, 2025
COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Life Sciences Association (OLS) today announced the launch of two new initiatives designed to support economic development and strengthen Ohio’s position as a national leader in the life sciences industry. The Life Science Ready Community Designation Program and accompanying Life Sciences Industry Guide will provide local communities and economic developers with the tools and recognition needed to attract high-paying jobs and life-saving innovations to Ohio.
Modeled after Massachusetts’ successful BioReady® Community Program, the Life Science Ready Community Designation allows cities, townships, and counties across Ohio to apply for formal recognition of their readiness to support life sciences companies. The OLS team will evaluate communities through a comprehensive application process and may earn one of three designations: Emerging, Advanced, or Premier, based on their infrastructure, workforce, real estate, and policy environment.
“The life sciences sector in Ohio is growing rapidly — creating good-paying jobs and delivering treatments that improve and save lives,” said Eddie Pauline, President and CEO of Ohio Life Sciences. “This program helps ensure that Ohio’s communities are not only aware of this growth but are positioning themselves to compete for the investments, jobs, and opportunities the life sciences sector brings.”
The new Life Sciences Industry Guide, developed in partnership with the seasoned economic development experts at Montrose Group, serves as a first-of-its-kind resource for Ohio’s municipal and economic development leaders. The guide outlines the key components that make communities attractive to life sciences companies, including zoning considerations, workforce development strategies, infrastructure needs, and access to innovation hubs.
An advisory committee of experienced economic development leaders from across the state played a critical role in shaping the new program and guide. Representatives from the City of Mentor, City of Mason, City of Westerville, and City of New Albany provided strategic input to ensure the resources are aligned with the real-world needs of communities preparing for life sciences investment.
“Ohio Life Science has been a long-time and valuable partner in the City of Mason’s strategy to grow and support our biohub. Life Science companies in Mason have created thousands of jobs and are attracting smart talent from all over country to fuel next gen ideas and solutions. With this program, we are acknowledging that we are going out of our way to address special requirements that are unique and critical to this industry. Having these in place in advance makes us more attractive and an easier reason to get to “yes.” I’m thrilled we now have a program that will take the guesswork out of site location decisions and enhance Ohio’s winning position.” said Michele Blair, director of economic development for the City of Mason.
“Ohio has the talent, infrastructure, and innovation ecosystem needed to be a life sciences leader,” added Pauline. “But success also depends on communities being ready to meet the specific needs of this industry. With these new tools, we are giving Ohio’s cities and towns a roadmap to do exactly that.”
The application process for the Life Science Ready Community Designation is now open. Communities interested in applying or accessing the Life Sciences Industry Guide can visit www.ohiolifesciences.org.
About Ohio Life Sciences
Ohio Life Sciences is the statewide membership organization representing Ohio’s life sciences community — an industry that spans biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, research, and health technology. OLS advocates for policies and programs that drive life sciences growth, fosters collaboration, and advances the discovery, development, and delivery of innovative healthcare solutions.
Media Contact:
Natalie Monroe
nmonroe@ohiolifesciences.org
614-406-9297
