Ohio Named America’s #1 State for Business: How Water Innovation Strengthens the Regional Economy

August 12, 2026

Ohio has been named CNBC’s #1 State for Business, proving to be the ideal launchpad for international companies entering the U.S. market. CWA is proud to support these global businesses by offering the office space, testing infrastructure, and collaborative support services needed to establish and scale in the region.

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It comes as no surprise to Cleveland Water Alliance that CNBC has named Ohio America’s #1 State for Business. From world-class research and development to robust manufacturing, shipping access via the Port of Cleveland, and unmatched business resources, the state offers everything necessary for companies to establish, scale, and succeed.

Ohio’s Collaborative Support Services

With robust manufacturing capabilities, deep technical expertise, and abundant natural resources, Ohio offers the ideal environment for international companies looking to enter the U.S. market. Navigating a new regulatory and commercial landscape can be challenging, and Ohio’s connected, industry-leading businesses, organizations, and services help ease that transition.

From accessible supply chains and logistical access through the Port of Cleveland to specialized regional partners, the state provides global businesses with a soft landing and a clear path to long-term growth.

"We aren't surprised to see Ohio ranked number one for business," shares Bryan Stubbs, President & CEO of Cleveland Water Alliance. "We see companies establishing and growing their presence right here in our facilities. Water powers our economy, and CWA is proud to provide the resources and collaborative network that help these businesses thrive."

CWA Hosts Top Water Tech Businesses in Office

Ohio’s regional strengths and expertise uniquely position our region to attract innovation and growth. In addition to facilitating global tech creators in our testbed network, Cleveland Water Alliance is proud to provide an operational base and landing pad for a dynamic mix of international companies, agencies, and partners expanding their footprint in Ohio:

The Wave Talk: A South Korean innovator advancing accessible water safety through small, low-cost water quality sensors.

Great Lakes Commission: A binational, interstate compact agency established in 1955 to advance the economic and environmental health of the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence River region.

Freeboard Technology: A subsidiary of LimnoTech specializing in customizable solutions for environmental monitoring and telecommunications.

Exposome: An Indian tech company creating customized, cost-effective solutions to solve complex air and water pollution challenges.

Michigan Sea Grant: A program dedicated to fostering economic growth and protecting Great Lakes resources through education, research, and outreach.

Global Quality Corp.: A former office tenant based in Kentucky, specializing in cutting-edge environmental sensing and modeling solutions.

Ohio as a Water Tech Destination

Water tech isn’t just a business attraction opportunity: Ohio’s economy depends on it. Virtually every industry, from advanced manufacturing to agriculture, requires reliable freshwater to operate. By attracting and supporting water-related businesses to the region, we are supporting, evolving, and driving long-term economic growth. 

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