Ohio is an interesting state, in my opinion:

• Strong manufacturing heritage
• 3 sizable metropolitan areas: one each in the north, central, and south
• A few reputable colleges and universities
• Always seems to be a battleground state in presidential politics

There is also quite a bit of funding for life science initiatives:

“With more than $2.5 billion in funding and 1,141 bioscience entities in operation throughout the state, Ohio is establishing an international leadership role in the cutting-edge bioscience industry.” (from Biosciene and Bioproducts article)

Ohio is home to the Cleveland Clinic too–one of the places life science companies go for clinical research. There are quite a few life science organizations in Ohio, including BioOhio, BioStart, and BioEnterprise.

But after talking to several Ohio residents from the northern, central, and southern parts of the state, I get a sense that Ohio is fragmented regarding life sciences. When Ohio figures out how to get all regions in the state working together towards the same vision, this state will be leading the life science pack.

Other Midwest states should pay attention.

While Indiana likes resources such as the Cleveland Clinic, there are quite a few positive initiatives including BioCrossroads, Indiana Health Industry Forum, Indiana Medical Device Manufacturers Council, IEDC 21st Century Fund, and INpact. Indiana University, Purdue University, Rose-Hulman, and other colleges and universities are in the fray too. Like Ohio, Indiana’s life science efforts are extremely fragmented.

But Indiana has the potential to move quicker than Ohio regarding the life science industry.Why? Indianapolis. Unlike Ohio with three major metropolitan areas, Indiana has one. I’m not discounting the rest of the state. If Indy can come together and develop a life sciences strategy, this would mean good things for the rest of the life science community in Indiana. It will also bode well for Ohio and the rest of the Midwest.