Dayton selected as host city for the 2026 OEDA Annual Summit
Ohio’s premier state-level economic development conference will showcase the Dayton region in 2026
Akron, Ohio – Thursday, October 16, 2025 – The Ohio Economic Development Association (OEDA) announced today that Dayton will host the 2026 OEDA Annual Summit, continuing the Summit’s statewide rotation following a record-setting 45th-year gathering in Akron. The Summit convenes nearly 600 economic development leaders for three days of practical learning, peer exchange, and regional storytelling. It is the largest event of its kind in the country.
“Dayton didn’t just apply—it competed and won,” said David Zak, President & CEO, OEDA. “Innovation is in the city’s DNA—flight, R&D, advanced manufacturing—and the team’s plan to elevate participation, with strong DDC involvement and the credibility of a 2025 NATO conference host, made Dayton the clear choice. We’re thrilled to bring the Summit to Dayton in 2026 and showcase the region’s momentum.”
City & County Leaders Welcome the Summit
“Dayton is honored to welcome Ohio’s economic development community,” said Jeffrey J. Mims, Jr., Mayor of Dayton. “From advanced manufacturing and aerospace innovation to our thriving small-business and startup ecosystem, Dayton is a city on the move—building partnerships, creating opportunity, and shaping the future of Ohio’s economy. The Summit is a chance to see firsthand how collaboration, creativity, and resilience continue to drive Dayton’s remarkable momentum as the City of Innovation—where opportunity takes off.”
“On behalf of Montgomery County, we’re excited to partner with OEDA and our regional team to deliver an exceptional Summit experience,” said Judy Dodge, President of the Montgomery County Commission. “Our community knows how to host large, high-impact events—and we’re ready to showcase the projects, partnerships, and places that make this region special.”
Regional & State Leaders on the Opportunity
“Dayton is where ideas move from lab to market,” said Jeff Hoagland, President & CEO, Dayton Development Coalition. “With Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and a growing advanced air mobility ecosystem fueling aerospace and defense innovation, our region’s momentum is real. Federal installations drive $19.4 billion in annual activity and recent projects have added more than $1 billion in capital investment and hundreds of millions in new payroll. That’s the playbook attendees will see—and take home—in 2026.” Dayton is where ideas move from lab to market,” said Jeff Hoagland, President & CEO, Dayton Development Coalition. “With Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and a growing advanced air mobility ecosystem fueling aerospace and defense innovation, our region’s momentum is real. Federal installations drive $19.4 billion in annual activity and recent projects have added more than $1 billion in capital investment and hundreds of millions in new payroll. That’s the playbook attendees will see—and take home—in 2026.”
“As the birthplace of aviation, Dayton shows how Ohio turns research into real jobs and investment,” said J.P. Nauseef, President & CEO, JobsOhio. “Joby Aviation’s decision to build next-generation aircraft in Dayton underscores that trajectory—and it’s just one example of the strong pipeline we’re seeing. Working with the Dayton Development Coalition and regional partners, companies are choosing the Miami Valley for projects that create thousands of jobs, retain critical talent, and drive well over a billion dollars in new investment. We’re excited to showcase that playbook at the 2026 Summit.”
A Promise of Hospitality & Experience
“Dayton delivers the full package for attendees—an accessible convention district, unique venues, and memorable experiences,” said Jacquelyn Powell, President & CEO of Destination Dayton®. “As a city built on innovation and collaboration, we’re thrilled to welcome Ohio’s economic development leaders to experience firsthand how Dayton is building momentum and inspiring discovery. From the newly renovated Dayton Convention Center to our vibrant downtown, culinary scene, and one-of-a-kind attractions, we look forward to working with OEDA to craft an itinerary that blends great learning with exceptional hospitality.”