Release Date: May 15,2026
Applications Open for Second Cohort of Synthe6 Materials Accelerator
Akron, OH – 05/15/26 — Bounce Innovation Hub is now accepting applications for the second cohort of the Synthe6 Materials Accelerator, a 12-month commercialization program designed to support high-potential polymer and advanced materials startups through weekly workshops; expert mentorship; direct access to industry leaders, corporate partners, and technical resources; and $25,000 per startup in non-dilutive funding.
The program is open to startups located in Ohio or willing to relocate to the state. Synthe6 applicants can apply solely to participate in the accelerator and receive the $25,000 grant, or they can submit a combined application that includes a request for translational Research & Development (R&D) grants of up to $500,000 alongside their accelerator application. Applications for the next Synthe6 cohort open alongside the Polymer Industry Cluster’s R&D grant funding cycle. In total, the Polymer Industry Cluster expects to award at least $6 million in total grant funding across three to four cycles, including projects funded in 2025, 2026 and beyond.
“Synthe6 represents the kind of intentional innovation infrastructure that helps regions compete in emerging industries,” said Jessica Sublett, President & CEO of Bounce Innovation Hub. “Ohio already has world-class expertise in polymers and advanced materials. Through Synthe6 and the broader work of the Polymer Industry Cluster, we are creating clearer pathways for startups to commercialize technologies here, connect with industry leaders, and scale companies that strengthen both our regional economy and domestic manufacturing capabilities.”
Synthe6 builds on the momentum of its inaugural year, which attracted innovative startups working across sustainable materials, advanced manufacturing, recycling technologies, healthcare applications, and next-generation polymer solutions. The accelerator is connected to the broader work of the Polymer Industry Cluster and supported in part by the State of Ohio’s Innovation Hubs Program, which is positioning Greater Akron and the State of Ohio as a national leader in polymer innovation and commercialization.
Proposals for the upcoming Synthe6 cohort will be evaluated by the Polymer Industry Cluster’s Innovation & Commercialization Committee against a set of criteria designed to identify projects with both scientific merit and a credible path to market. The strongest applications will demonstrate clear alignment with the cluster’s innovation priorities, mission, and vision; scientific rigor and a feasible research approach; a well-defined market need and competitive advantage; and a realistic implementation plan with clear milestones and budget. Reviewers will also weigh the strength of collaborations with regional companies and academic institutions, the extent to which the project leverages PIC capabilities, and how effectively the project has secured matching funds that signal broader commitment to the work.
“The quality of companies we saw in the inaugural Synthe6 cohort reinforced that there is tremendous opportunity for Ohio to lead in materials innovation,” said Elyse Ball, Vice President of Programming at Bounce Innovation Hub and co-chair of the PIC’s Innovation & Commercialization Committee. “Synthe6 helps founders accelerate commercialization while strengthening connections between startups, industry, and the broader polymer ecosystem.”
Applications and additional details about eligibility, timelines, and funding opportunities are available here.
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 Synthe6 Materials Accelerator
The Synthe6 Materials Accelerator is a premier 12-month cohort-based program designed to propel polymer and advanced materials startups toward commercialization and growth. The program provides participating startups with grant funding, expert mentorship, specialized workshops, professional services support, and direct connections to corporate and technical partners across the Polymer Industry Cluster ecosystem.
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.