Release Date: August 26,2025
PNC Startup Showcase Returns to Bounce Innovation Hub Audience-Led Pitch Competition, Blimp Ride Silent Auction Planned
AKRON, Ohio – Aug. 26, 2025 — Bounce Innovation Hub will celebrate rising startup businesses that are shaping the future of innovation across Akron and northeast Ohio at the PNC Startup Showcase, presented by Akron Energy Systems.
The Sept. 25 event will be held from 5-9 p.m. at Bounce Innovation Hub, located at 526 S. Main St. Proceeds from the event support Bounce’s work directly supporting entrepreneurs and growing northeast Ohio’s innovation ecosystem.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring the community together once again for the PNC Startup Showcase,” said Jessica Sublett, Bounce Innovation Hub president and CEO. “This event is more than a celebration, it’s a reflection of the talent, energy, and momentum that exists in our region. With the support of PNC Bank, Akron Energy Systems, Wave Strategy and many others, we’re able to provide real opportunities and visibility for the entrepreneurs we serve.”
The evening program includes a plated dinner and brief remarks from Sublett and key partners, including Bounce Board Chair, Hans Dorfi, and PNC Regional President, Joe Luckring. Returning for the second year is an expanded startup pitch competition featuring a selection of Bounce program clients, offering guests the chance to cast their vote for the Audience Choice Pitch Award, a $5,000 cash prize sponsored by Wave Strategy provided to the winning pitch.
“This collaboration between regional entrepreneurs and local business leaders brings revolutionary ideas and groundbreaking solutions to the Greater Akron and northeast Ohio region,” Luckring said. “PNC is committed to supporting foundational initiatives that drive creativity and new technologies that advance our region’s business community, and we’re delighted to work with Bounce Innovation Hub to highlight the future of innovation in our region.”
Attendees will also hear from a special panel hosted by James Hilton of WonderKiln, featuring three standout founders from last year’s showcase: Isaiah Kaiser of Auxilium, Deb Helton of RaidoHub, and Charles Hubbard of Papertrail. They will share updates and lessons learned over the past year.
Silent Auction
Another highlight of the evening is a silent auction sponsored by Goodyear, which runs through the evening of the event, officially closing at 7:30 p.m. One lucky winner will be awarded two seats aboard the iconic Goodyear Blimp, a rare and unforgettable experience. The winning bid will be announced at the close of the dinner program.
Networking Hour
Also new to this year’s event, guests will be invited to network in The Generator at Bounce, a dynamic space that includes coworking, conference rooms, and event space designed to inspire and connect the community to the innovation ecosystem. Tickets may be purchased specially for this networking hour following the main program.
Tickets and Registration
There are three ticket options available:
Full Showcase & Dinner Ticket
Includes access to the full dinner program, startup presentations, panel discussion, silent auction, networking reception, and dessert bar. After purchase, attendees will be contacted to confirm dinner selections.
Networking Only Ticket
Includes entry to the post-program networking reception in Bounce’s Generator space, featuring bar service, dessert, 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 our region can participate in this high-impact event.
Tickets are available now at Bounce’s Eventbrite page.
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 http://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.