Leading Policy Solutions for Ohio’s Economic Future
The Ohio Chamber Research Foundation Fellows Program represents a groundbreaking initiative designed to improve Ohio’s business climate through rigorous research, innovative policy development, and thought leadership. Our fellows program connects leading experts with Ohio’s business community to develop evidence-based solutions that strengthen our state’s economic competitiveness across all sectors and policy areas.
Program Mission
The OCRF Fellows Program engages top-tier experts from academia, policy, and industry to tackle the complex challenges facing Ohio businesses and economic development. Through in-depth research and strategic analysis, our fellows develop actionable recommendations that help shape public policy, improve Ohio’s business climate, and drive economic growth across the state.
Why This Work Matters
Ohio’s ability to compete for jobs, investment, and long-term economic growth depends on informed, strategic decision-making.
Issues like legal climate, economic development, infrastructure, and workforce readiness directly influence whether businesses choose to invest, expand, or hire in Ohio. These are complex, interconnected challenges that require more than theory – they require real-world experience.
The Fellows Program brings that experience into the conversation.
By engaging leaders who have worked at the highest levels of law, business, and economic development, the program helps ensure that policy discussions are informed, practical, and aligned with the needs of Ohio’s business community.
At a time when states across the country are competing aggressively for growth and opportunity, this work is essential to positioning Ohio for long-term success.
Meet The Fellows
The Ohio Chamber Research Foundation is proud to engage leaders whose experience and perspective help shape Ohio’s economic future.
Melissa Powers, Legal Climate Fellow
A trusted legal voice shaping Ohio’s legal climate
Melissa Powers brings legal expertise and public leadership to conversations around Ohio’s legal environment and its impact on economic growth. Her work focuses on issues such as civil liability, litigation trends, and how judicial decisions affect businesses and investment.
Kenny McDonald, Economic Development Fellow
A proven leader driving economic growth and investment in Ohio
Kenny McDonald brings decades of experience in economic development, focusing on the key drivers of growth including energy, infrastructure, workforce, and site readiness. His work helps inform how Ohio competes for and attracts major business investment.
What Our Fellows Do
Fellows contribute in ways that align with their expertise and the evolving needs of Ohio’s business and policy landscape.
Engagement may include:
- Thought leadership and commentary
- Participation in discussions and events
- Collaboration with business leaders and policymakers
- Providing insight on emerging issues
Fellows Program Impact
The Fellows Program helps:
- Elevate credible voices on complex policy issues
- Inform conversations with policymakers and stakeholders
- Connect real-world experience to policy development
- Strengthen Ohio’s economic competitiveness
Support the Fellows Program
The Fellows Program is made possible through the support of individuals and organizations committed to strengthening Ohio’s business climate and economic future.
We would welcome the opportunity to connect with you to discuss how you can support this work. Please reach out to Rachel Hoynes to learn more about supporting this program.
Rachel Hoynes
Fundraiser, Ohio Chamber of Commerce
rhoynes@ohiochamber.com
330-419-9180
