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Welcome to The Global Exchange — your source for the latest updates, upcoming events and resources from Ohio REALTORS® Global to help you stay connected and grow your global real estate perspective.

Investment Trends

• Big Tech & Data Centers: Companies like Amazon Web Services continue to expand data center investments in Ohio, pushing multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects statewide. 
• Honda & LG EV Battery Plant in Fayette County: Honda, in partnership with South Korean battery maker LG Energy Solution, is making a major investment in a new $3.5 billion electric vehicle battery plant in Fayette County, Ohio. It is expected to create around 2,200 jobs and strengthen Ohio's automotive and EV supply chain leadership — a key example of foreign investment expanding advanced manufacturing here. 
• Vertiv Headquarters Expansion in Central Ohio: Vertiv — a global IT infrastructure and data center systems provider — continues to grow in the Columbus region, expanding its campus and consolidating operations while creating additional jobs supported by local and state incentives, reinforcing Ohio's appeal to international technology-focused companies. 

Canadian Food Producer Announces First U.S. Operations in Ohio

Dainty Foods, a Canadian-based producer of private-label rice and convenient meal products, has chosen Batavia Township, Ohio, for its first manufacturing facility in the United States, bringing a significant international investment to the region. The company plans to invest an initial $85 million — with potential for up to $150 million over time — and create approximately 240 new jobs, generating about $15.8 million in annual payroll. The new facility will expand production capacity to serve growing U.S. demand while strengthening supply chain distribution. Job creators cited Ohio’s strong Midwest workforce, infrastructure, and business-friendly environment as key factors in the location decision.

Northeast Ohio

Italian Manufacturer Opens U.S. Operations

Rupes USA, the American arm of Italian precision-tool manufacturer Rupes S.p.A, has officially opened its new operations in Northeast Ohio, marking a significant international investment in the state’s advanced manufacturing landscape. The company, known worldwide for its high-quality finishing and polishing systems, chose Ohio for its strategic location, skilled workforce, and strong industry support. This expansion is expected to strengthen supply chain capabilities, create local job opportunities, and enhance Ohio’s reputation as a competitive hub for global manufacturers entering or growing in the U.S. market.

Central Ohio

SICCET USA chooses Grove City for first U.S. manufacturing site

A new international investment project was recently highlighted in regional news: SICCET USA, the U.S. arm of Italy’s SICCET SRL, chose Grove City for its first American manufacturing facility — a 20,000-square-foot plant creating jobs, supported by a JobsOhio economic development grant.

Global Perspectives: Housing, Sustainability, and Market Insights from Finland 

March 24, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EST

Discover how international companies are shaping economic development in Ohio — from manufacturing expansions to technology infrastructure investment. We’ll explore where global capital is flowing, how Ohio competes on the world stage, and what it means for local communities and REALTORS®.

Ohio's Micropolitians Among Nation's Best for Economic Development

For the fourth year in a row, Ohio has solidified its reputation as a premier location for business growth and investment, ranking No. 3 nationally for economic development projects in the latest Governor’s Cup rankings by Site Selection magazine. Ohio stood out not only for the number of significant business projects across sectors like manufacturing, headquarters expansions and logistics, but its micropolitan communities — cities with populations between 10,000 and 50,000 — were recognized as the best in the nation at attracting new development. This achievement reflects the strength of Ohio’s business environment, workforce, infrastructure, and ability to draw both domestic and international investment to communities of all sizes.

O.H.I.O. Fund Drives Nearly $200M in Investment Across Ohio

The O.H.I.O. Fund continues to fuel economic growth across the state, deploying nearly $200 million into Ohio-based companies and real estate projects spanning manufacturing, biopharma, technology, and advanced industries. By strategically investing in high-growth sectors, the fund is helping strengthen Ohio’s innovation economy, support job creation, and accelerate capital flow into communities statewide. This momentum underscores Ohio’s expanding role as a destination for both domestic and global investment.

Global Success Month is Here

Ohio REALTORS® is participating in Global Success Month, hosted by the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS® (NVAR), which is a collaborative initiative each March that brings together REALTOR® associations from across the country to highlight opportunities in international real estate. Throughout the month, associations host a variety of virtual and in-person educational programs, networking events, and global business sessions designed to help REALTORS® expand their knowledge of global markets and build international referral connections. REALTORS® can participate in these sessions to learn from industry leaders and explore new ways to grow their business in today’s increasingly global real estate market.

You can explore the full calendar of programs and virtual opportunities below.