Release Date: July 28,2026
Bounce Innovation Hub Announces 2026 PNC Startup Showcase at House Three Thirty in Akron
AKRON, OH — July 28, 2026 — Bounce Innovation Hub will once again work with title sponsor PNC Bank for its 8th annual Startup Showcase from 5 to 9 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 24, at House Three Thirty, located at 532 West Market Street in Akron. Tickets are available now at Bounce’s Eventbrite page.
The event highlights promising startups that are shaping the future of innovation across Northeast Ohio. The startups are selected from current clients of Bounce Innovation Hub that receive mentorship, commercialization support and specialized provider resources through the organization’s Kinetic, Synthe6 Materials Accelerator and Flywheel programs. All proceeds from the event directly support Bounce’s mission in growing Northeast Ohio’s innovation ecosystem and driving economic growth and prosperity throughout the region.
“This is an especially exciting Startup Showcase because of the recent wins we’ve experienced not only at Bounce, but across Northeast Ohio,” said Jessica Sublett, Bounce Innovation Hub president and CEO. “From the Wall Street Journal highlighting our work to attract a strong and growing workforce in Ohio, to the announcement of NEO-SMART’s award of up to $160 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation, we’re creating real momentum through the collaborative work with our partners across all corners of the region.”
The full program includes a plated dinner, networking cocktail receptions before and after dinner, and the startup pitch competition featuring a selection of Bounce programming clients. Guests will have the opportunity to cast their vote for the Audience Choice Pitch Award, a $5,000 cash prize provided to the startup receiving the most votes.
Attendees will hear updates on Bounce’s work and successes from Sublett, in addition to special guest speakers and key Bounce supporters, such as Joe Luckring, PNC regional president for Akron, on their collaborative efforts to propel the region forward.
“Entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful drivers of economic growth, and organizations like Bounce are helping ensure that Akron remains a place where innovation can thrive,” said Luckring. “When founders have access to meaningful support and a strong network, they build companies that create jobs, attract talent, and contribute to the long-term vitality of our community. The Startup Showcase celebrates that progress and reinforces why PNC is committed to investing in the people and ideas that are shaping Akron’s future.”
Tickets and Registration
There are multiple ticket options available to attend or support the event:
- Full Showcase & Dinner Ticket
Includes access to the full dinner program, startup presentations, pre-and-post program networking receptions, and dessert. - Networking Only Ticket
Includes entry to the post-program networking reception featuring bar service and access to connect with entrepreneurs, investors, and regional business leaders. - Support an Emerging Entrepreneur
When registering, guests also have the opportunity to donate a ticket for an aspiring entrepreneur, helping to ensure that future leaders in the region can participate in this high-impact event. - Direct Donation to Bounce
Those who are unable to attend the event but still wish to support Bounce have the option to donate any amount on the Eventbrite page. This option is not a ticket to the event.
About PNC Bank
PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.
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.