Release Date: May 15,2026
Applications Open for Polymer Industry Cluster R&D Funding
May 15, 2026, Akron, OH – The Polymer Industry Cluster is accepting proposals for translational research and development (R&D) funding to accelerate polymer innovations from concept to commercialization through the Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub, supported by the Ohio Department of Development Innovation Hub program.
Open to startups or companies located in Ohio or willing to operate in the state, this application cycle prioritizes solutions that unlock new capabilities in materials and manufacturing, advance sustainability, and strengthen supply chains. Focus areas include next-generation materials and process technologies; circular and recyclable solutions; AI-driven and automated discovery and manufacturing; materials supporting human health; and energy storage and conversion. Proposals can be submitted at picinnovation.org/apply/2026.
“Polymer innovation is one of Ohio’s defining strengths, and this funding cycle is another opportunity to back the researchers, entrepreneurs, and companies who are turning that strength into commercial impact,” said Hans Dorfi, Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer of the Polymer Industry Cluster. “We’ve built a pipeline that helps strong ideas move quickly from concept to market, and we’re eager to see what this next round of applicants brings forward.”
The PIC’s R&D funding opportunity is open alongside Bounce Innovation Hub’s Synthe6 Materials Accelerator application cycle, providing startups with access to both commercialization programming and potential R&D support. Applicants can submit a combined application that includes a request for R&D grants of up to $500,000 alongside their Synthe6 application.
In total, the Polymer Industry Cluster expects to award at least $6 million in total grant funding, supported by $2 million in local match, will be distributed across three to four cycles, including projects funded in 2025, 2026 and beyond.
The inaugural funding round in 2025 round supported 13 innovation projects spanning health care, sustainable packaging, recycling, and advanced materials, including a bio-based aerogel wound dressing from Auxilium Health, biodegradable nanolayered films from Peak Nano, a modular system that converts mixed plastics and end-of-life tires into usable fuels from PolyKinetix, and University of Akron research that pairs carbon dioxide with butadiene to produce sustainable polymers.
“We were extremely impressed by the quality of proposals that were submitted in the inaugural 2025 Polymer Industry Cluster funding cycle, including both R&D projects and Synthe6 Materials Accelerator participants,” said Elyse Ball, VP of Programming at Bounce Innovation Hub and a co-chair of the PIC’s Innovation & Commercialization Committee. “We can’t wait to see what innovations Ohio’s companies, universities and startups bring forward in 2026.”
Proposals will be evaluated by the PIC’s Innovation & Commercialization Committee against a set of criteria designed to identify projects with both scientific merit and a credible path to market. Applications should:
- Align with the PIC’s innovation priorities, mission, and vision
- Demonstrate scientific rigor and a feasible research approach
- Have a well-defined market need and competitive advantage
- Outline a realistic implementation plan with clear milestones and budget
Reviewers will also weigh the strength of collaborations with PIC member companies and academic institutions, the extent to which the project leverages the PIC ecosystem and its capabilities, and how effectively the project has secured matching funds that signal broader commitment to the work.
For more information about the PIC, visit polymerindustrycluster.org.
About the Ohio Innovation Hubs Program
Created by the DeWine Administration in partnership with the Ohio General Assembly, the $125 million Ohio Innovations Hubs Program will capitalize on communities’ existing industry and research strengths to build sustainable pipeline talent and commercialize new products and technologies. Aimed at small and medium-sized Ohio cities, the hubs will create jobs, increase STEM talent, and attract research funding and outside capital investment.
Funding for the program was made possible through Am. Sub. House Bill 33, the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 State Operating Budget, and is being administered by the Ohio Department of Development.
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 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.