Columbus Chamber Celebrates Ohio’s No. 1 CNBC Ranking as a Win for the Columbus Region Business Community

The Columbus Chamber of Commerce celebrates Ohio being named CNBC’s Top State for Business in 2026. The recognition affirms the collaborative efforts that continue to position the Columbus Region and the State of Ohio as premier destinations for business growth, investment, innovation, and opportunity. 

For businesses across the Columbus Region, the ranking reinforces what employers experience every day: a business climate built on strategic partnerships, world-class infrastructure, competitive costs, a culture of innovation, and a shared commitment to economic prosperity. 

“Ohio’s recognition as the nation’s top state for business reflects the strength of the Columbus Region and the partnerships that continue to move our economy forward,” said Derrick R. Clay, President and CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “This achievement belongs to the many organizations, employers, and leaders who work every day to create an environment where businesses can succeed. Together, we are building one of the most competitive regions in the country.” 

CNBC recognized Ohio for its exceptional infrastructure, affordable cost of doing business, market access, technology and innovation, and economic competitiveness. The state earned the nation’s top ranking after placing No. 1 in both Infrastructure and Cost of Doing Business, while also ranking among the nation’s leaders in Economy, Technology and Innovation, Access to Capital, and Cost of Living. 

The Columbus Chamber applauds Chamber and Board of Directors member JobsOhio for its continued leadership in strengthening Ohio’s economy through business attraction, expansion, site development, and workforce investment. Alongside regional economic development organizations, local governments, educational institutions, and private-sector partners, JobsOhio has helped create an environment where businesses have the confidence to invest and grow. 

“As the active voice for the Columbus Region business community, we know that sustained economic success is built through collaboration,” Clay said. “Organizations like JobsOhio, One Columbus, our local communities, and business leaders across the region are demonstrating what is possible when we work together with a shared vision for growth.” 

The Columbus Chamber remains committed to advancing that momentum by fulfilling its mission to drive prosperity and growth through convening, navigating, and advocating. Through meaningful connections, strategic resources, public policy leadership, and business intelligence, the Columbus Chamber helps companies of every size overcome barriers, seize opportunities, and contribute to the continued prosperity of the Columbus Region. 

While celebrating this national recognition, the Columbus Chamber also recognizes the importance of continuing to invest in Ohio’s future workforce. The Columbus Chamber welcomes initiatives such as JobsOhio’s recently announced workforce investments that will help prepare the talent needed to support the next generation of business growth and innovation. 

“Recognition like this is more than a ranking—it is validation that Ohio and the Columbus Region are competing successfully on a national stage,” Clay said. “The Columbus Chamber will continue to convene the community, advocate as the active voice for business, and navigate the insights, connections, and solutions so the Columbus Region remains one of the best places in America to start, grow, and expand a business.” 

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About the Columbus Chamber of Commerce: The Columbus Chamber of Commerce is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that serves more than 2,600 organizations across the Columbus Region. Founded in 1884, the Chamber serves as a strategic partner to the region’s businesses. We convene the community, advocate as the active voice for business, and navigate the insights, connections, and solutions that drive prosperity and growth. The Chamber provides an interconnected ecosystem where businesses collaborate to eliminate barriers to success, creating a vibrant environment for enterprises throughout the region. Together, we make our region an exceptional place to do business. Learn more: columbus.org.