The theme launch comes with a major statewide initiative: the debut of the **Ohio Innovation Trail**, a curated journey through more than 80 historic sites that tell the story of Ohio’s pioneering spirit. From the Wright Brothers’ workshop in Dayton to Thomas Edison’s birthplace in Milan, the trail invites residents and visitors alike to follow in the footsteps of world-changing innovators.
“Ohio has always been a state that builds, invents, and leads,” said Doug McClure, executive director of America 250-Ohio. “This new trail gives people a chance to experience that legacy firsthand and see how our ingenuity continues to shape the nation’s future.”
The Ohio Innovation Trail spans urban centers and small towns, featuring stops that highlight aviation, manufacturing, energy, and technology milestones. The initiative will also include digital maps, educational resources for classrooms, and local programming in communities across the state throughout the month.
Officials say the theme’s focus on innovation aligns with Ohio’s deep industrial roots and ongoing transformation into a hub for advanced manufacturing and research. It’s part of a yearlong rotation of monthly themes that explore Ohio’s contributions to the broader American story — all leading up to the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations in July 2026.
“Ohio Works reminds us that innovation isn’t just history — it’s happening here, every day,” McClure said.
