December 1, 2025

State Capital Budget:

ACAA Online Resource Guide and Community Project Presentation Day

The ACAA has developed an online resource guide for regional stakeholders who are interested in Community Project Funding within the State Capital Budget. This guide is available at akroncantonadvocacy.org. It provides an overview of the process, guidance on engaging with elected officials, and tips for submitting a successful request.


The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Akron Chamber have convened their respective Capital Budget Task Forces, comprised of diverse community leaders. A few weeks ago, both chambers hosted presentation days, providing project sponsors with an opportunity to present their proposals to their respective Task Force and elected officials. As regional efforts to prepare for this legislative process further develop, we will continue communicating updates and relevant information. 

In Case You Missed It:

Recap of Recent Roundtables with Elected Officials

As the ACAA works to foster economic growth and collaboration across the region, we often host events designed to inform, connect, and empower our business community. These gatherings bring together industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss key issues shaping Ohio’s future. We invite you to take full advantage of these opportunities to engage with elected officials in substantive dialogue and play an active role in advancing our shared objectives. Please watch for upcoming dates—we look forward to your participation in the next event!

Roundtable Discussion with Congressman Rulli

On November 14th the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance hosted a dynamic roundtable discussion with U.S. Congressman Michael Rulli (OH-6) at Employers Health in North Canton. Those in attendance analyzed critical issues and focused on practical solutions alongside Congressman Rulli. The conversation was insightful and collaborative.

PIC Meeting with Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik

On November 20th, the ACAA and Polymer Industry Cluster (PIC) hosted Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik to discuss the progress of the Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub. PIC leadership reported out key information pertaining to their overall network, innovation, infrastructure, workforce and economic growth.

D.C. Fly-In: Ohio Holiday Reception


Next week (12/2-12/4) the ACAA will continue its federal advocacy efforts on a number of key initiatives, including funding for the Polymer Industry Cluster’s Polymer R&D and Production Facility, the NEO-SMART NSF Innovation Engines proposal, and other pieces of legislation impacting the business community. We strategically plan our fly-ins around various events happing in D.C., and invite our ACAA partners to participate in one of our upcoming trips!

The Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance is a collaboration of the Greater Akron Chamber and the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce to represent the needs of our 4,500 members and engage with elected officials and policymakers for the benefit of the Akron-Canton region.

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

For more information, contact John Rizzo, Vice President, at jrizzo@akroncantonadvocacy.org or Daisha Okolo, Coordinator, at dokolo@akroncantonadvocacy.org.


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