Portage County
Located conveniently amid northeast Ohio’s urban centers, Portage County offers excellent accessibility to a well-developed transportation network (highways/interstates, rail, air, and trucking), major urban markets, a well-educated and experienced labor force, and cultural and recreational opportunities, including nine public golf courses, five state parks, community parks, a legendary racetrack, and private campgrounds. Higher education options include Hiram College, Kent State University, and Northeast Ohio Medical University. The county has grown 28.6% in recent decades. Industries range from manufacturing to technology. Employment hovers around 94%.
Equipped to meet your needs
162,600+ PEOPLE
Living in Portage County
46,800+ workers
in the robust workforce of Portage County
2,500 BUSINESSES
Thriving in Portage County
Recent Economic Development Achievements
Viega LLC
JobsOhio Small Business Grants Support Portage County Businesses
Geis Cos. and Stonemont Financial Group
Best Employers in Ohio 2024
LG Chem
Notable Higher Ed. / Vocational Training Institutions
Portage County Sites & Buildings
Program Spotlights
Neighborhood Development Services Loan Program
NDS provides loans for new or existing businesses that create or retain jobs. NDS has helped to create over 1,300 jobs by assisting businesses start or expand using various funding sources such as: the USDA, Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), and NeighborWorks America funding. Contact Jen Davis at 330-297-6400 ext. 225 or jdavis@ndsohio.org. Learn more.
City of Kent Loan Program
The City of Kent maintains a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Program designed to provide direct, low interest loans to qualified small businesses who expand or locate in the City of Kent. Learn more.
Incumbent Worker Training Program
Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) is an employer service that allows OhioMeansJobs Portage County (OMJPC) to reimburse employers for training their current workforce. Learn more.
Manufacturing Internship Program
OhioMeansJobs Portage County partners with local manufacturers and Kent State University Tuscarawas to offer the manufacturing internship program. It’s available to qualified Portage County residents at no charge. Learn more.
