For 25 years, The Ohio State University and Honda have worked together to advance research, education and workforce development — a collaboration that stands as a national model for industry–university partnerships.
Since the partnership was formalized in 2000, Honda and Ohio State have invested more than $132 million in research, education and innovation. Together, they have launched new programs, supported groundbreaking projects and created hands-on opportunities that prepare students for the future of work while strengthening Ohio’s economy.
“This partnership demonstrates the power of aligning industry expertise with academic excellence,” said Alissa Comella, associate vice president for corporate partnerships and co-director of the Honda–Ohio State Partnership. “It’s creating pathways for students, fueling discoveries and building a stronger innovation ecosystem across the state.”
Here are five ways this enduring partnership continues to make a lasting difference:
- $132 million invested in innovation and education.
Honda’s support has funded hundreds of research initiatives, endowed faculty positions and provided scholarships that give students real-world experience in emerging technologies. - 400 research projects advancing mobility and manufacturing.
Collaborative research has driven progress in automation, connectivity, materials science and energy — helping shape the next generation of sustainable, high-performance vehicles. - A growing pipeline of Ohio talent.
Each year, 100 to 150 Ohio State students join Honda through internships, co-ops or full-time positions. Initiatives such as the Honda Launchpad Program and Automotive Manufacturing Certificate are expanding opportunities in the mobility industry. - Transformative facilities shaping the future.
Major developments include the Battery Cell R&D Center, the Honda Research Institute Advanced Materials Science Lab in Ohio State’s Innovation District, and new robotics labs at regional campuses — designed to give students access to the latest technology and enable high-impact research collaboration. - Scholarships and faculty support that fuel leadership.
The partnership supports 120 scholarships each year and six endowed faculty positions, ensuring Ohio State remains a leader in engineering, business and technology education.
“Honda and Ohio State share a deep commitment to innovation and to preparing the next generation of problem solvers,” said Meredith Reffey, department lead of Workforce Partnerships for American Honda Motor Co. Inc. and co-director of the Honda–Ohio State Partnership. “By working together, we’re advancing technologies that will define the future of mobility while investing in the people who will make it possible.”