Regional Growth Partnership and JobsOhio Welcome Meta to Northwest Ohio with New $800 Million Data Center Announcement

The Regional Growth Partnership (RPG) and JobsOhio announced today that Meta will be building its newest AI-optimized data center in Northwest Ohio. The 715,000-square-foot data center will be located on a 280-acre site in Middleton Township, Wood County. Once completed, the facility will represent an investment of more than $800 million in the state and will support approximately 100 jobs. Meta anticipates more than 1,000 construction workers will be onsite at the peak of construction.

Company officials, as well as local, regional and state representatives, gathered at Bowling Green State University this morning to hear the formal announcement.

“Ohio is shaping the future of the data-driven digital economy, and we are pleased that Meta chose Wood County for this new investment,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Northwest Ohio’s talent pipeline and strategic location will create an environment where Meta, and the other technology companies they attract, can thrive while bringing new opportunities for our regional workforce and their families.”

Data centers are part of Meta’s global infrastructure that brings its technologies and services to life. From technicians and heating and cooling specialists to administrative support and planning, the data centers provide quality job opportunities for local communities. This will be the company’s 28th data center worldwide, and the second in Ohio. Meta makes a concerted effort to source labor and materials locally and provide substantial contributions directly to the community.

“We are thrilled that we will be building our Bowling Green Data Center right here in Wood County. We selected Middleton Township for a number of reasons, including great access to infrastructure and renewable energy, a strong pool of talent, and a wonderful set of community partners that have helped us move this project forward,” said Brad Davis, director of data center community and economic development at Meta. “We are excited to become part of the Wood County community, and we look forward to having a strong, mutually beneficial partnership for years to come.”

For Ohio, the state has long established itself as a top location for data centers. Since 2011, the state has seen a 4-times growth in data centers, with more than 1,500 now in operation across Ohio. Data centers create positive economic momentum for Ohio in several ways, including sustained long-term revenue, job creation, talent attraction, and significant benefits to local communities. The presence of data centers stimulates local economies through direct employment opportunities and supports ancillary businesses involved in construction, maintenance and other services.

“More and more, Ohio continues to be the location of choice in the Midwest for innovative disruptors, and Meta’s latest data center investment is an example of how global advancements of new technologies that power today’s economy are being driven here,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “As a worldwide AI leader, Meta’s investment will bring partnerships with local schools, 100 permanent jobs, and additional support jobs necessary to keep the facility running day-to-day."

And for Northwest Ohio, its inherent assets, particularly a robust supply of energy, make it an attractive location for high-growth industries, mainly within tech-related fields. Northwest Ohio has more than three dozen energy producers, suppliers, manufacturers and transporters. Last year alone, the regional energy industry invested nearly $3 billion into operations.

“Wood County has a built a foundation for businesses to grow and flourish in this region,” said Wood County Commissioner Craig LaHote. “Companies locating here recognize the assets and business climate that provide the advantages and opportunities for success. Wood County is proud and grateful to welcome Meta and looks forward to a long-term partnership beneficial to all of us.”

Like all of Meta data centers, the Bowling Green Data Center’s electricity use will be matched with 100% clean and renewable energy. The company is also committed to long-term community investment, supporting local schools, nonprofits and community projects through direct funding and volunteering.

Many entities worked collaboratively in moving this project forward. They include Wood County Economic Development Commission, Middleton Township, Wood County Commissioners, Wood County Port Authority, the City of Bowling Green, Ohio Department of Development, Toledo Edison and JE Dunn Construction.

Construction has already started and is expected to last for several years. Job listings will be available soon at metacareers.com.

About the Regional Growth Partnership

The Regional Growth Partnership is the lead economic development organization serving 17 counties in Northwest Ohio. As a private nonprofit development corporation, the RGP is dedicated to fostering regional, national and international business investment opportunities across the region. The RGP serves as Northwest Ohio’s network partner for JobsOhio. Visit www.rgp.org for more information.

About JobsOhio

JobsOhio, Ohio's private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO, JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage. Learn more at www.jobsohio.com.  Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.