Intel CorporationOhio's top ranking and Intel's semiconductor investment in Licking County are mentioned as a historic-scale project, signaling favorable business environment for Intel's operations.

Ohio has been named the No. 1 state for business in CNBC's 2026 America's Top States for Business rankings, marking the first time the state has held the top spot since the study launched in 2007. Ohio climbed from No. 5 in 2025 to No. 1 in 2026, capping five straight years of improvement and a rise of 33 spots since 2010. The state ranked first in both Infrastructure and Cost of Doing Business, two of the most heavily weighted categories, and placed in the top 10 for Economy, Access to Capital, and Cost of Living. Governor Mike DeWine attributed the ranking to Ohio's long-term workforce and economic development strategy, while Lt. Governor Jim Tressel highlighted innovative workforce programs like WorkOhio and the Experiential Learning Initiative. The recognition coincides with historic-scale projects such as Intel's semiconductor investment in Licking County and Anduril Industries' $910 million Arsenal-1 campus, which is expected to create more than 4,000 jobs.
Intel CorporationOhio's top ranking and Intel's semiconductor investment in Licking County are mentioned as a historic-scale project, signaling favorable business environment for Intel's operations.