Moreno, Landsman discuss AI policy at UC's 1819 Innovation Hub

Rob Richardson introduces Cincinnati Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Kearney. Photo/Diana Lara

With a theme of "Embedding Empathy Into Innovation," MidwestCon 2025launched Cincinnati and the 1819 Innovation Hub to the forefront of discussions on AI.

The 90-minute luncheon was co-hosted by Rob Richardson, founder of MidwestCon, UC's Portman Center for Policy Solutions and Richard Harknett, director of UC's Center for Cyber Strategy and Policy.

From left to right: Chris Carper, Microsoft; Shawn McMillan, Altafiber; Pavan Parikh, Hamilton County Clerk; Rob Richardson, MidwestCon; Rick Harknett, UC; Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Kearney. Photo/Diana Lara

Innovation is moving faster than the rules that govern it. Without thoughtful tech policy, three risks emerge:

• Uncertainty slows progress: Entrepreneurs and investors hesitate when regulations are vague. Clear policy signals give innovators confidence to build, test and scale new technologies.
• Innovation without guardrails can harm people: Emerging tech like AI, blockchain and biotech carries risks if misused. Responsible governance helps ensure these tools are deployed ethically, protecting privacy, security and access.
• Economic growth depends on trust: When the public and industry believe technology is being developed responsibly, adoption accelerates. This creates new industries, jobs and global competitiveness, particularly critical for Ohio as it leads in AI and advanced manufacturing.

Moreno emphasized Ohio's unique position in the global technology landscape:

"Ohio is extraordinarily well-positioned for the future," he said. "We have abundant energy to power innovation, the very foundation of the AI revolution. We are also committed to ensuring the success of Intel's new facility in Columbus, which will drive growth in advanced chip manufacturing and deliver strong returns for taxpayers. And just as importantly, we are cultivating an ecosystem of talented people across Ohio who know how to harness and unleash these transformative technologies."

Throughout the luncheon, Richardson guided conversations with thought leaders focusing on three key themes:

• How responsible AI policy can provide clarity without stifling innovation
• Principles for the responsible use of emerging technologies
• The government's dual role as both regulator and innovation catalyst

Richardson challenged attendees to think about the role of local and global industries in shaping an innovation ecosystem, asking, "Because we're [Ohio] building our own infrastructure, the question becomes: what do we want to see from local industry and global cities? What actionable ideas can we take forward to policymakers and administrators to incentivize innovation in a sustainable way?"