

The Dayton area is quite dynamic and innovative, and it shows in the business sector. One of the region’s many assets is the presence of several renowned universities and colleges, which continue to produce highly skilled and dedicated employees. The area’s location at the intersection of I-70 and I-75 and its thriving base of businesses are also major factors in the Dayton region’s success. Leading industries, including information technology, aerospace research and development, advanced materials and manufacturing, as well as human sciences and health care, continue to flourish here. With these business advantages, it’s no wonder that, in 2008, Site Selection magazine named Dayton the No. 1 medium-sized metropolitan for corporate growth and expansion.
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

The Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) is a major contributor to the area’s economy, serving as the region’s largest employer. The Wright-Patterson AFB stretches over 8,100 acres of land in Dayton and generates an economic impact of around $4.4 billion. In addition to the 16-plus million square feet of workspace utilized by engineers, scientists, doctors, maintenance workers and others, the WPAFB features recreational sites, shops, restaurants, places of worship, a child care facility, and housing for active duty members and approximately 4,500 military members and their families.
Alternative Energy

Many businesses in the area have taken steps to introduce alternative energy sources in their business practices, including Wright-Patterson AFB. Wright-Patterson burns 2.5 billion gallons of jet fuel each year, which accounts for approximately 10 percent of the country’s total demand for jet fuel. In January 2008, the Air Force provided a strategic plan that will institute a “greener” alternative fuel blend from domestic sources.
This is just one way the Dayton region is being proactive in conserving the environment. Alternative energy research and development continues at area universities and business centers, notably the University of Dayton Research Institute, the Edison Materials Technology Center and Twenty First Century Energy — a developer and manufacturer of alternative wind energy systems.
Dayton Development Coalition

The Dayton Development Coalition is a public/private partnership that was founded in order to drive economic growth and prosperity to the Dayton area. Building a foundation for future growth, the regional Coalition invests in entrepreneurial development services to support start-up businesses, business recruitment initiatives, retaining and expanding the region’s defense installations, and regional advocacy efforts. More information on the Dayton Development Coalition and its mission is available online at www.getmidwest.com.