Dayton's Leap into Innovation
In an exciting development, Dayton has been designated as Ohio's second 'Innovation Hub' following a massive $95 million investment. This transformative project is set to create approximately 2,000 jobs and generate a substantial $500 million in new research revenue by 2031.
The initiative will focus primarily on national defense by providing a space for the Air Force to leverage digital technology in its strategic preparations against competitive threats, notably from China. The University of Dayton and Premier Health are anticipated to be the largest local investors in this ambitious endeavor, which will be located on the former fairgrounds near Miami Valley Hospital.
Building for the Future
The proposed facility, spanning 120,000 square feet and five floors, will include secure spaces known as SCIFs (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities). Such secure areas are crucial for handling classified information and are testament to the building's strategic importance in defense operations.
Brian Heitkamp, CEO of OnMain, highlighted the readiness to engage local partners like the Dayton City Commission to advance the project. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the collaborative spirit across state and local levels, praising the synergy between the University of Dayton, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and other stakeholders.
Educational and Economic Synergy
Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted illustrated the project's potential impact by envisioning collaborations between graduates and professionals across various fields such as drones, sensors, artificial intelligence, and medicine. The hub aims to bring together the private sector, public sector, and educational institutions to foster talent and innovation, ultimately contributing to national security.
Addressing Global Challenges
Robert Fookes Jr., a top engineer at the Wright-Patterson-anchored Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), underscores the strategic importance of the hub in light of global threats, particularly from the People's Republic of China. The Air Force's ongoing digital transformation efforts, including real-time, data-driven decision-making, are pivotal in maintaining a competitive edge.
Ohio's Hubs Program
The DeWine-Husted administration initiated the hubs program to stimulate investments around major metro areas in Ohio. With up to $125 million available through this initiative, lead applicants can secure up to $35 million in funding. Dayton's inclusion as a hub is buoyed by the strategic presence of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which continues to attract private sector interest and employment opportunities.
With Dayton's new status as an innovation hub, the city stands poised to become a critical player in national defense and technological advancement, setting a promising trajectory for both the local community and the broader Ohio economy.
