Rep. McNally Joins Governor in Announcing the City of Youngstown as the 4th and Final Innovation Hub Awardee

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) today announced that Youngstown has been chosen as the site for the state’s 4th and final Innovation Hub. Governor DeWine, Lt. Governor Tressel and Director of Development Lydia Mihalik made the announcement at an event in downtown Youngstown. 

“This isn’t just any project, this is a legacy project. What we’re building together will leave a mark on this community for generations,” said Rep. McNally. “This Innovation Hub is going to be a place where ideas can grow, where entrepreneurs will thrive, and where people can come together to make things happen. It’s going to help bring new energy to our city and put us on the map for the future of business and technology.”

Funded with $26 million from the Ohio Innovation Hubs Program and $36 million in local, federal, and private investment, the Youngstown Innovation Hub for Aerospace and Defense will bring together government, academia, and private sector industry partners to transform the region into the global epicenter for additive manufacturing.  

The Youngstown Innovation Hub for Aerospace and Defense will be led by America Makes, founded in Youngstown in 2012 as the U.S. Department of Defense’s national manufacturing innovation institute for additive manufacturing. Additional partners include the Youngstown Business Incubator, Youngstown State University, the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, and the City of Youngstown. Long-term goals for the project include expanding local facilities to meet demand, creating a talent pipeline for additive manufacturing, creating intellectual property for commercialization, and supporting large and small businesses. Over the next four years, the hub is expected to produce 450 new jobs, 185 new STEM credential opportunities, 40 internships, and $161 million in economic productivity.