Jon Cross

Jon Cross is an accomplished executive leader, former state legislator, and economic development practitioner. He is the Founder and President of Cross Capital Consulting, a full-service government affairs and economic development consulting firm based in Northwest Ohio. As an Ohio-registered lobbyist, Jon serves as the firm’s chief advocate for legislative and executive lobbying efforts and economic development consulting. He leverages his extensive network and expertise across the public and private sectors to provide trusted guidance for businesses, organizations, and policymakers.

With over 20 years of experience in politics, public policy, fundraising and economic development, Jon has built strong connections at the national, state, and Capital Square levels. He recently completed three terms in the Ohio General Assembly, where he represented Ohio’s 83rd District. During his tenure, he earned a reputation as a leading advocate for economic development, workforce development, public education, higher education, and infrastructure initiatives. Elected by his colleagues as Assistant Majority Floor Leader in the 135th General Assembly (2023-2024), Jon played a key role in advancing Ohio’s legislative agenda, contributing to the state’s ranking as one of the nation’s top 10 most business-friendly states.

Jon’s legislative record demonstrates his commitment to both his district and the state. He authored 14 bills that became law and secured over $123 million in state funding for his district, supporting local schools, community projects, transportation, flood mitigation, and infrastructure. Notable achievements include spearheading the $50 million rural broadband infrastructure program, the $500 million water/wastewater infrastructure fund, and the $750 million All Ohio Future Fund-site development program to strengthen Ohio's economic development efforts.

As an advocate for education and workforce development, Jon chaired the Ohio House Finance Subcommittee on Higher Education, helping to increase student aid funding. He authored and passed the TechCred bill (HB2) —an initiative to upskill Ohio’s workforce for new job opportunities and provided financial support for STEM scholarships to support innovation and to fulfill in-demand jobs. His GROW Ohio Act (Graduating and Retaining Ohio’s Workforce) aimed to recruit and retain college graduates in Ohio, with key elements of the bill incorporated into the state budget.

In economic development, Jon championed policies to enhance Ohio’s business climate. He collaborated with JobsOhio to support initiatives that helped secure megaprojects like Intel, Honda, and Ford, and led tax reform efforts designed to support small businesses and foster job creation.

Before entering the legislature, Jon served as President & CEO of the Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance, where he led economic development, tourism, chamber, and community development efforts. His career also includes working with influential political and business leaders such as California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, former HP CEO Carly Fiorina, and industrial real estate developer Richard Allen of The Allen Group. Additionally, he worked with The New Majority PAC, a coalition of C-suite executives and entrepreneurs supporting fiscally focused candidates and initiatives.

As President of Cross Capital Consulting, Jon draws on his extensive experience in politics, policy, and economic development to help clients navigate Ohio’s complex political landscape. Whether securing state funding, influencing public policy, or advancing strategic economic initiatives, Jon has a proven track record of success. He is committed to delivering practical solutions and impactful results for clients throughout Ohio.