Central Ohio tech scene booms thanks to big investments
The city has been ranked a top renting market + housing market in back-to-back months. | Photo via Canva
From past achievements to future endeavors, CBUS + the Buckeye State are plugged in to some of the biggest names in technology. Today, we’re refreshing your page with the latest in central Ohio.
Tech talk
In the last year, $30+ billion was invested in Ohio for technology. Here’s a look at the running tally.
Amazon Web Services will invest $7.8 billion in central Ohio; the second largest investment in state history.
Microsoft purchased 183 acres in Licking County for $57 million near Intel.
Google announced two new data centers, one in Columbus, and the other in Lancaster.
Honda selected Fayette County for its $3.5 billion battery manufacturing plant.
Intel began construction on its $20 billion semiconductor factory.
Amazon also purchased 400 acres in Licking County for $117 million near Intel.
Comparing some of the biggest tech investments in state history. | Graphic by CBUStoday
New gigs
The Ohio State University is currently building Carmenton, an innovation district encouraging technological problem solving. The university will use this area for many things, including a software innovation center funded by the largest donation in school history. Other exciting developments include a focus on smart energy systems and furthering cancer research with the Pelotonia Research Center.
Additionally, Intel donated $2.8 million to 23 Ohio colleges to facilitate more career pathways. This led to a new two-year degree, now offered at Columbus State Community College.
Name brands
Columbus is home to rising stars in the tech scene, including Cardinal Health for its modern approach to medicine, and Battelle — a nonprofit + national leader in technology, research, and science. Other soon-to-be household names include Root Insurance and CoverMyMeds, both based in Columbus.
Additionally, some of the biggest businesses are already set up in central Ohio, including Amazon, AEP, Google, Meta, and Chipotle.
Events
Wednesday, July 12
“Do The Right Thing” | Wednesday, July 12 | 7:30 p.m. | Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Downtown | $5-$6 | Watch this hit film from the late 80s featuring Spike Lee.
Thursday, July 13
Will Strickler Quartet | Thursday, July 13 | 6-8 p.m. | Land-Grant Brewing Co., 424 W. Town St., Franklinton | Free | Enjoy an evening of live music and local brews in the beer garden.
Friday, July 14
Tony Roberts | Friday, July 14-Sunday, July 16 | Times vary | Columbus Funny Bone, 145 Easton Town Ctr., Easton | $22 | Listen to this comedian who has been on HBO, Showtime, and BET.
Saturday, July 15
Big Time Rush | Saturday, July 15 | 7 p.m. | Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr., Campus | $20-$766 | Relive the nostalgia of this band that rose to fame on Nickelodeon.
The best 2023 Prime Day deals to upgrade every room in the house
Yup, it’s on sale — snag the Samsung TV that doubles as a work of art. | Photo via Amazon
Boy, do we have good news for you: Amazon’s Prime Day deals are here. Browse our favorites:
Prime Day deal: SAMSUNG The Frame TV, $1,497.99 $987.99 — Finally get a magazine-worthy living room with a TV that looks like a picture frame and displays art when it’s turned off.
The Columbus community can now cast ballots as early voting is underway. The deadline to submit early ballots is Sunday, Aug. 6 at 5 p.m. and the special election will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 8.
Try This
We are firm believers there’s no such thing as too many outdoor movies. That’s why you need to check out this new series hosted by Green Lawn Abbey Preservation. For a $5 donation, watch classic movies like “Dazed & Confused” while near a mausoleum and cemetery. (614now)
Festival
Haunted Fest, an EDM-themed concert with multiple performers, is coming to KEMBA! Live on Friday, Oct. 27. Discover Ohio-based DJs at this all-day show. Tickets go on sale Friday, July 14.
Real Estate
What would you do with $12.6 million? US Bank answered that question by purchasing the foreclosed Continental Plaza downtown during a recent sheriff’s auction. The national bank didn’t disclose its plans for its new $12+ million, 34-story tower. However, it seems likely it will be placed for sale. (Columbus Business First)
Edu
Franklin University is now the biggest private college in central Ohio after growing its fall enrollment to 11,500+ in 2022. The local college additionally surpassed a new milestone as nearly 1,000 students graduated this past spring, which now stands as a new university record. (The Columbus Dispatch)
Community
The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium welcomed in a new rose-breasted grosbeak in May and has one question: What should they name her? Submit your answers to the Zoo before Thursday, Aug. 10 + one winner will receive $530 towards a college savings plan.
It’s the last day of Amazon Prime Day. Shop the deals, including 30% off the TV that looks like a picture frame on your wall.*
Try This
Dance party (Taylor’s Version)
Newport Music Hall to host Taylor Swift-themed dance party
Taylor Swift performs during her “Reputation Stadium Tour” in May 2018. | Photo via Wiki Commons
Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” may have missed Columbus, but Newport Music Hall isn’t going to shake it off that easily.
Instead, the local music venue is leaning into the T-Swift hype with an all-night dance party on Friday, Oct. 20 starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and go on sale this Friday, July 14 at 10 a.m.
What can you expect? The 18+ night is hosted by Taylor Swift Night, a national event group with experience in the game. They will spin records of all her different hits, ranging from “Speak Now” to “Folklore” — and you better believe they are all Taylor’s Version.
Shop
It’s the last day of Amazon Prime Day sales — aka, discounts on everything from iPads to furniture to nugget ice makers. Surf the sales or check out our picks. Note: Deals may be subject to change.
Family
Keep crumbs and messes under control with the iRobot Roomba that empties itself — it’s $400 off (yes, you read that right).
Eat
Bread makers are making a comeback, and we totally get why (read: soft, warm, homemade bread). Snag the Hamilton Beach Bread Maker that’s $34 off.
Arts
Customize tees, pillows, and totes with the Cricut Heat Press Machine’s pro-level heat-transfer that lasts through repeated washes. Get it while it’s 20% off.
Outdoors
Keep comfy and cool this summer with wear-anywhere black running shorts, discounted down from $24.99 to $18.39.
Is anyone on Threads yet? I won’t lie — I downloaded it the minute it came out and have been loving it. Give me a follow so we can talk more about Columbus there.
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