PORTSMOUTH, Ohio (AVC News) — Ohio Southeast Economic Development hosted its second annual Fall Prosperity Forum Tuesday at Shawnee State University, bringing together more than 100 regional stakeholders to discuss economic development and strategies for future growth across Southeast Ohio.
The Sept. 15 event, themed “Built on Partnership, Positioned for Growth,” focused on the region’s economic progress, its connection to statewide initiatives and opportunities ahead for southern and eastern Ohio.
Shawnee State University President Eric Braun welcomed attendees before introducing Drew Cooper, senior managing director of external affairs for JobsOhio. Cooper discussed Ohio’s ranking as CNBC’s No. 1 state to do business and the long-term strategies, investments and partnerships that have contributed to the state’s competitiveness.
Rick Carfagna, senior vice president of government affairs for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, delivered the keynote address. He discussed the Ohio Chamber’s updated Blueprint for Ohio’s Economic Future and outlined advantages and challenges facing the state.
Following the keynote, Cooper and Carfagna joined OhioSE President and CEO Matt Abbott for a panel discussion focused on aligning regional and statewide economic strategies.
Abbott also presented OhioSE’s strategic plan, which centers on four pillars: regional leadership, talent, competitive assets and economic development.
Abbott said the organization developed a new economic development strategy after reviewing regional data and market conditions and gathering input from partners across all 25 counties served by OhioSE.
JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef highlighted recent investments in Southeast Ohio, including Vertiv’s expanding manufacturing footprint in Ironton and Centrus Energy’s expansion in Piketon.
“The business development, economic growth, expanding workforce, and increased investment in Southeast Ohio show the tremendous progress that has been made over time,” Nauseef said.
OhioSE is the JobsOhio Network Partner for southern, eastern and southeastern Ohio and provides economic development resources and services across 25 rural counties.
The organization said its strategic work will focus on building on existing regional assets while strengthening workforce development, infrastructure, partnerships and other factors that support economic growth.
Last Updated on September 17, 2026 by AVC News
