Release Date: July 17,2025
Applications Now Open for Synthe6: New Accelerator Program for Materials Startups
AKRON, OH (7/16/2025) — Bounce Innovation Hub is accepting applications for the first cohort of the Synthe6 Materials Accelerator, a new 12-month accelerator for polymer and materials science startups launching this September. In its first year, the program will support up to eight early-stage companies with grant funding, commercialization training, and access to industry leaders through the Polymer Industry Cluster. Startups interested in applying can visit bouncehub.org/synthe6application. Applications are due by July 31, 2025.
In partnership with the Polymer Industry Cluster, powered by the Greater Akron Chamber, Synthe6 is tailored for hard tech founders in the polymer sector; offering $25,000 in non-dilutive funding and an additional $15,000 in covered professional services expenses, including marketing, legal, and materials formulation and testing services.
“This isn’t a generic accelerator,” said Nick Glavan, Program Director of Synthe6. “We’re creating a program designed around the unique commercialization challenges that polymer and materials startups face. We will connect founders to mentors, specialists, and industry relationships that actually move the needle.”
Participants will engage in weekly sessions that include targeted workshops, mentor coaching sessions, and facilitated access to technical experts such as grant strategists, investment advisors, regulatory consultants, and leadership development coaches. The curriculum for the accelerator has been developed with input from nationally recognized tough tech startup advisor and program architect, Jaye Goldstein, who has supported innovation programs at MIT and Harvard. Through the Synthe6 Materials Accelerator, startups will engage industry partners early in their commercialization process and fit market needs with innovative solutions, leveraging the Polymer Industry Cluster’s growing corporate members.
“The Synthe6 Materials Accelerator is a powerful example of how the Polymer Industry Cluster is activating our innovation ecosystem to accelerate real-world impact for member companies,” said Hans Dorfi, Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer for the Polymer Industry Cluster. “By connecting emerging materials startups with our leading industry members, technical experts, and commercialization resources, we’re creating a launchpad for the next generation of sustainable, scalable polymer solutions.
The accelerator is supported by funding from the State of Ohio Innovation Hubs program, promoting the region as the national leader in polymer innovations, and launching Akron as the go-to location for advancing material startup businesses and creating job opportunities.
Applications will be reviewed by a committee of technical and entrepreneurial experts appointed by the Polymer Industry Cluster, with final admission decisions announced August.
For more information or to apply, visit bouncehub.org/synthe6 or reference the attached FAQ sheet.
About Bounce Innovation Hub
Bounce Innovation Hub is Northeast Ohio’s center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and business growth. Located in downtown Akron, Bounce operates a 300,000-square-foot facility that includes coworking, office, lab, and light manufacturing space, as well as event and meeting venues. As a nonprofit, Bounce supports a diverse community of startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs through high-impact programs, mentorship, and partnerships. Bounce specializes in accelerating high-growth potential innovations, particularly in software, healthcare, and advanced materials, by providing hands-on support, customized resources, and access to capital and customers. With more than 450 people and 50 organizations housed in the building, Bounce fosters collaboration, creativity, and inclusive economic development across the region.
About the Polymer Industry Cluster
The Polymer Industry Cluster initiative was launched in 2021 to conduct a deeper examination of the region's polymer industry and develop a framework to leverage its full potential. Powered by the Greater Akron Chamber, the Polymer Industry Cluster works to elevate Northeast Ohio’s polymer industry into a truly dynamic enterprise that is better positioned for strong, sustainable growth in an ever-changing global economy.
About the Greater Akron Chamber
The Greater Akron Chamber is a business membership and economic development organization serving Summit, Medina, and Portage counties. The Greater Akron Chamber drives economic growth and prosperity for the region by supporting the success of the business community and acting as a convener of stakeholders on key issues facing Greater Akron.