The Toledo 2024 Year in Review "It Matters Where You Make It." magazine celebrates some of the outstanding people and organizations who created headlines last year. From once-in-a-lifetime celestial events to major economic developments, Toledo continued to shine as a hub of innovation, resilience, and community spirit. Now in its eighth year of publication, this magazine highlights all the great things going on in our region, which makes it a great talent attraction and retention tool for your business.
Check out some of the highlights and then click on the link to view the full magazine. Enjoy!
Check out some of the highlights and then click on the link to view the full magazine. Enjoy!
A Moment in the Shadow: The Total Solar Eclipse
One of the most unforgettable moments of the year occurred on April 8, when Toledo found itself in the path of totality during a rare solar eclipse. For nearly two minutes, the city went dark, drawing visitors from across the country to witness this astronomical spectacle. Hotels, restaurants, and local attractions rolled out the red carpet, making the event a significant economic driver for the region.
A Booming Year for Business and Development
2024 saw major investments that will continue to shape Toledo’s economic future. A $31 million state grant bolstered the region’s status as a leader in the glass and solar industries, fueling workforce development and innovation. Meanwhile, infrastructure improvements, such as the revitalization of Levis Square Park and major expansions at Penta Career Center, reinforced Toledo’s commitment to community growth.
Additionally, the region celebrated more than 20 ribbon cuttings for new businesses, expansions, and key projects, demonstrating Toledo’s thriving entrepreneurial spirit.
Lights, Camera, Action: Toledo on the Big Screen
Toledo’s presence in the entertainment industry reached new heights, with multiple films being shot in the area, bringing in nearly $8 million in direct economic impact. Sylvania-born filmmaker Johnny Antonini’s debut feature The Lifeguards premiered to a sold-out crowd, and FilmToledo continued to attract major productions to the region, including Eerie Mezzanine and The Toast.
Education & Workforce: Investing in the Future
Northwest Ohio’s colleges and universities continued to make waves. Bowling Green State University and the Thompson Foundation established a record-setting $250 million scholarship program, ensuring a brighter future for students. The University of Toledo took home the Jacoby and Reese Trophies, a historic double win for its athletic programs, while Owens Community College opened its $31.3 million Healthcare Education Center, reinforcing the region’s leadership in medical training.
A City That Plays Hard: Sports, Recreation & Community
Toledo’s sports scene thrived in 2024. The Mud Hens and Walleye once again drew massive crowds, propelling Toledo to a #2 ranking in Minor League Sports Markets. The city also honored Marcus Waugh, a Toledo firefighter who earned the title of World’s Strongest Firefighter at the Arnold Sports Festival.
Meanwhile, the region enhanced its recreational offerings with the Glass City Riverwalk project and efforts to make local parks more inclusive, ensuring that every resident has access to safe and enjoyable public spaces.
Honoring the People Who Make Toledo Great
2024 was also a year of celebrating Toledo’s leaders and change makers. From the Women’s Entrepreneurial Distinction Awards recognizing top businesswomen to Brandon Sehlhorst’s recognition as Economic Developer of the Year, the region continued to be shaped by visionary individuals.
And while we celebrated new leaders, we also said goodbye to a legend—Jim Weber, the voice of the Toledo Mud Hens for nearly 50 years, passed away in August. His impact on Toledo sports will never be forgotten.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With a year full of milestones behind us, Toledo is poised for even greater success in 2025. From economic growth to cultural achievements, our region continues to prove that It Matters Where You Make It.
Click the link to view the Toledo 2024 Year In Review publication: https://indd.adobe.com/view/7a9a5794-ca96-4a17-a755-81b9fbb882b8
One of the most unforgettable moments of the year occurred on April 8, when Toledo found itself in the path of totality during a rare solar eclipse. For nearly two minutes, the city went dark, drawing visitors from across the country to witness this astronomical spectacle. Hotels, restaurants, and local attractions rolled out the red carpet, making the event a significant economic driver for the region.
A Booming Year for Business and Development
2024 saw major investments that will continue to shape Toledo’s economic future. A $31 million state grant bolstered the region’s status as a leader in the glass and solar industries, fueling workforce development and innovation. Meanwhile, infrastructure improvements, such as the revitalization of Levis Square Park and major expansions at Penta Career Center, reinforced Toledo’s commitment to community growth.
Additionally, the region celebrated more than 20 ribbon cuttings for new businesses, expansions, and key projects, demonstrating Toledo’s thriving entrepreneurial spirit.
Lights, Camera, Action: Toledo on the Big Screen
Toledo’s presence in the entertainment industry reached new heights, with multiple films being shot in the area, bringing in nearly $8 million in direct economic impact. Sylvania-born filmmaker Johnny Antonini’s debut feature The Lifeguards premiered to a sold-out crowd, and FilmToledo continued to attract major productions to the region, including Eerie Mezzanine and The Toast.
Education & Workforce: Investing in the Future
Northwest Ohio’s colleges and universities continued to make waves. Bowling Green State University and the Thompson Foundation established a record-setting $250 million scholarship program, ensuring a brighter future for students. The University of Toledo took home the Jacoby and Reese Trophies, a historic double win for its athletic programs, while Owens Community College opened its $31.3 million Healthcare Education Center, reinforcing the region’s leadership in medical training.
A City That Plays Hard: Sports, Recreation & Community
Toledo’s sports scene thrived in 2024. The Mud Hens and Walleye once again drew massive crowds, propelling Toledo to a #2 ranking in Minor League Sports Markets. The city also honored Marcus Waugh, a Toledo firefighter who earned the title of World’s Strongest Firefighter at the Arnold Sports Festival.
Meanwhile, the region enhanced its recreational offerings with the Glass City Riverwalk project and efforts to make local parks more inclusive, ensuring that every resident has access to safe and enjoyable public spaces.
Honoring the People Who Make Toledo Great
2024 was also a year of celebrating Toledo’s leaders and change makers. From the Women’s Entrepreneurial Distinction Awards recognizing top businesswomen to Brandon Sehlhorst’s recognition as Economic Developer of the Year, the region continued to be shaped by visionary individuals.
And while we celebrated new leaders, we also said goodbye to a legend—Jim Weber, the voice of the Toledo Mud Hens for nearly 50 years, passed away in August. His impact on Toledo sports will never be forgotten.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With a year full of milestones behind us, Toledo is poised for even greater success in 2025. From economic growth to cultural achievements, our region continues to prove that It Matters Where You Make It.
Click the link to view the Toledo 2024 Year In Review publication: https://indd.adobe.com/view/7a9a5794-ca96-4a17-a755-81b9fbb882b8
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