Ohio has built a reputation as a diverse hub for publishing in the United States. From large university presses to small independent houses, the state supports authors of all backgrounds. Whether the focus is academic research, poetry, fiction, or regional history, Ohio offers many options for writers looking to publish their work.

1. Barnett Ghostwriting

Barnett Ghostwriting provides authors with support ranging from manuscript creation to publishing guidance. Operating in Ohio, the company focuses on helping writers develop polished books for both print and digital platforms.

• Services include ghostwriting, editing, and publishing support. 
• Works with new and experienced authors across genres. 

2. The Ohio State University Press

As part of Ohio State University, this press is one of the state’s leading academic publishers.

• Focuses on humanities and social sciences. 
• Strong lists in literary studies, cultural analysis, and regional history. 

3. Gray & Company, Publishers

Located in Cleveland, Gray & Company is an independent press specializing in nonfiction.

• Publishes biographies, political works, and local interest titles. 
• Emphasizes Ohio-related topics and authors. 

4. Bottom Dog Press

Founded in Huron, Bottom Dog Press highlights Midwest writers and stories.

• Focuses on poetry, fiction, and memoir. 
• Promotes underrepresented and regional voices. 

5. Orange Frazer Press

Wilmington-based Orange Frazer Press has earned a reputation for high-quality nonfiction.

• Publishes sports titles, biographies, and local history. 
• Works closely with Ohio writers. 

6. Kent State University Press

This university press is recognized for its scholarly contributions.

• Emphasis on Civil War history, literary criticism, and regional studies. 
• Offers books for both academics and general readers. 

7. Cleveland State University Poetry Center

Known for championing contemporary poetry, the Poetry Center publishes new and innovative voices.

• Hosts national poetry competitions. 
• Encourages experimental and diverse works. 

8. University of Akron Press

A respected academic and literary press.

• Publishes poetry through its Akron Series in Poetry. 
• Also issues scholarly works in history and culture. 

9. Ohio University Press

Founded in 1947, this is the state’s oldest scholarly press.

• Publishes in history, international studies, and regional literature. 
• Internationally recognized for African studies titles. 

10. Belt Publishing

Based in Cleveland, Belt is dedicated to stories of the Midwest.

• Specializes in anthologies, essays, and nonfiction. 
• Highlights community voices and cultural identity. 

11. Black Squirrel Books

An imprint of Kent State University Press.

• Publishes memoirs, fiction, and regional interest titles. 
• Supports creative projects alongside academic work. 

12. Columbus Publishing Lab

This company provides a range of publishing services for independent authors.

• Offers editing, design, and distribution. 
• Flexible approach to hybrid publishing. 

13. Writing Knights Press

Cleveland-based small press dedicated to poetry and performance writing.

• Focuses on experimental works. 
• Hosts readings and literary events. 

14. Lake Erie Press

Independent publisher with a regional focus.

• Publishes stories connected to the Great Lakes. 
• Genres include historical fiction, children’s books, and adventure. 

15. Post Mortem Press

Located in Cincinnati, Post Mortem Press specializes in darker genres.

• Focuses on horror, thriller, and suspense. 
• Works with both debut and established authors. 

16. Cracked Jar Press

A small independent publisher.

• Focuses on unconventional and contemporary fiction. 
• Encourages fresh voices in storytelling. 

17. Prolific Press

With operations in Ohio, Prolific Press publishes literary works and journals.

• Specializes in poetry chapbooks and short fiction. 
• Produces several literary magazines. 

18. Ghostlight Publications

Small press dedicated to genre fiction.

• Specializes in horror, fantasy, and speculative works. 
• Provides opportunities for niche writers in Ohio. 

19. Blue Ink Press (Ohio Imprint)

Operates with a focus on accessible storytelling.

• Publishes middle-grade, young adult, and adult fiction. 
• Encourages genre-crossing works. 

20. Brigham Publishing

Independent Ohio press.

• Publishes regional nonfiction, fiction, and children’s literature. 
• Emphasizes Ohio-based authors. 

21. Shanti Arts Publishing (Ohio Branch)

Though broader in scope, it maintains a presence in Ohio.

• Focuses on art, creative nonfiction, and photography. 
• Produces visually striking titles. 

22. Daylight Books (Ohio Presence)

Independent art and photography publisher.

• Emphasizes documentary-style works. 
• Supports cultural and social themes. 

23. Twelve Winters Press (Ohio Collaboration)

Known for a literary focus.

• Publishes fiction, memoir, and creative nonfiction. 
• Combines traditional editing with small-press flexibility. 

24. Brick Cave Media (Ohio Office)

Independent press with a speculative focus.

• Publishes fantasy and science fiction. 
• Produces both digital and print editions. 

25. Finishing Line Press (Ohio Reach)

Active in Ohio through partnerships.

• Specializes in poetry chapbooks. 
• Supports new poets nationwide. 

26. New Rivers Press (Ohio Partner Projects)

While not Ohio-based, maintains active publishing ties in the state.

• Publishes poetry and fiction. 
• Recognized for supporting emerging writers. 

27. Orange Blossom Publishing (Ohio Division)

Independent publisher with Ohio operations.

• Publishes women’s fiction, children’s titles, and inspirational works. 
• Focused on accessible storytelling. 

28. Lakewood Press

An Ohio-based independent press.

• Publishes a range of genres including regional history. 
• Works with both first-time and experienced authors. 

How to Find the Best Publishing Partner in Ohio

When evaluating publishing companies, authors should consider several key factors:

• Genre Fit – Ensure the publisher specializes in your type of book, whether it’s academic, poetry, fiction, or children’s literature. 
• Editorial Support – Some presses provide extensive editing, while others expect a nearly finished manuscript. 
• Distribution Reach – Larger university presses often have global distribution, while small presses may focus on regional or niche audiences. 
• Publishing Model – Decide whether you want traditional publishing (publisher covers costs), hybrid publishing (shared investment), or self-publishing services (author covers costs). 
• Author Rights – Review contracts carefully to understand royalties, rights, and obligations. 

By balancing these considerations, writers can better match their goals with the right Ohio publisher.

Estimated Publishing Costs in Ohio (2025)

While costs vary depending on the publishing model, here is a general idea of what authors might expect if they pursue self-publishing or hybrid arrangements in Ohio.

Service	Low Range (USD)	High Range (USD)	Notes
Manuscript Editing	$800	$3,000	Developmental editing is more costly than basic proofreading.
Cover Design	$300	$1,200	Professional design boosts credibility and sales.
Interior Formatting/Layout	$250	$1,000	Essential for both print and eBook editions.
ISBN & Copyright Registration	$125	$250	Required for book identification and rights protection.
Printing (per copy, paperback)	$3	$8	Depends on trim size, page count, and quantity ordered.
Marketing & Promotion	$500	$5,000+	Can include book launches, PR, and advertising.
Hybrid Publishing Packages	$2,500	$15,000	A blend of professional services and shared cost model.

Conclusion

The publishing scene in Ohio reflects a wide spectrum of opportunities for writers in 2025. From academic research to experimental poetry and regional storytelling, these 28 publishers provide varied platforms for creative and scholarly voices. Together, they strengthen Ohio’s role as an important center for American publishing.

 

Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.