Not only is Greater Akron a great place for start-up companies, its innovative spirit and program assistance keep more than 21,000 companies thriving. With its blend of enjoyable living and high-powered opportunity, Akron is home to 150 Fortune 500 companies and provides an anchor for businesses to flourish in the long-term.

The Tokyo-based Audio-Technica, which designs and manufactures high-performance microphones, headphones, noise-canceling headphones and other audio products used extensively in the music industry, expanded its business to Akron in 1972 and has since dominated the U.S. market in its niche.

“This area provides us with good access to our customers, plus the ability to connect to major airports for international travel,” says Richard Sprungle, vice president of operations. “Local service providers such as freight carriers, printers and electronic component providers are competitive and capable of meeting the daily operational requirements of our organization.”

A major strength of the company is the dedicated staff, Sprungle says. “The area provides us with qualified and passionate employees who enjoy world-class health care, outstanding recreational opportunities and access to arts and entertainment.”

Akron's workforce and community loyalty, along with its strategic location, are key reasons why Tallmadge-based Summit Racing Equipment has remained in the area. The company, which began as a one-man shop in 1968, is the largest mail order automotive performance supplier worldwide. Throughout its growth and retail expansion, Summit Racing's partnership with the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce has helped the business market its retail store to media outlets, advertising manager Nan Gelhard says. 

In 2010, the Greater Akron chamber received a national recognition from the International Economic Development Council for the success and innovation of its business retention program—the Summit Business Partnership—which it plans to expand to Medina and Portage counties this year. Since its inception in 2003, the partnership has made approximately 1,750 visits to local companies, providing economic assistance by connecting them with other businesses, sales prospects, financing options and international opportunities.