The Ohio Life Sciences Association (OLS) has designated New Albany as a “premier” city based upon its infrastructure, workforce, real estate, and policy environment to attract health and life sciences companies. The designation comes as the organization announced the launch of two new initiatives designed to support economic development and strengthen Ohio’s position as a national leader in the life sciences industry. The Life Science Ready Community Designation Program and accompanying Life Sciences Industry Guide provides local communities and economic developers with the tools and recognition needed to attract high-paying jobs and life-saving innovations to Ohio. New Albany and the other premier cities served on the advisory committee to help shape the new program and industry guide.

Modeled after Massachusetts’ successful BioReady® Community Program, the Life Science Ready Community Designation allows cities, townships, and counties across Ohio to apply for formal recognition of their readiness to support life sciences companies. Through a comprehensive application process, OLS will evaluate communities for three potential designations: Emerging, Advanced, or Premier.

“The life sciences sector in Ohio is growing rapidly — creating good-paying jobs and delivering treatments that improve and save lives,” said Eddie Pauline, president and CEO of Ohio Life Sciences. “This program helps ensure that Ohio’s communities are not only aware of this growth but are positioning themselves to compete for the investments, jobs, and opportunities the life sciences sector brings.”

The new Life Sciences Industry Guide, developed in partnership with the seasoned economic development experts at Montrose Group, serves as a first-of-its-kind resource for Ohio’s municipal and economic development leaders. The guide outlines the key components that make communities attractive to life sciences companies, including zoning considerations, workforce development strategies, infrastructure needs, and access to innovation hubs.