Deadline Approaching: R&D Funding, Startup Support Applications

The application period closes June 30 for this round of translational research and development (R&D) funding and for companies seeking to join the next Synthe6 Materials Accelerator cohort. These opportunities offer a timely path to advance polymer innovations from concept to commercialization.

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
• Energy storage and conversion.

The PIC’s R&D funding opportunity is open alongside Bounce Innovation Hub’s Synthe6 Materials Accelerator application cycle. The 12-month commercialization program is 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.

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 R&D grants of up to $500,000 alongside their accelerator application.

The application deadline is June 30, 2026.

Meet John Swanson, Director of Innovation Portfolio

As Director of Innovation Portfolio for the Polymer Industry Cluster, John Swanson connects companies, researchers and regional partners to the tools, relationships and ideas that move polymer innovation forward.

His passion for science began as a kid and led to hands-on polymer research at Cal Poly and a PhD at The University of Akron. He went on to build his career at Avient and NeoGraf, contributing to product innovation, earning 12 patents and receiving multiple industry awards.

Today, John is focused on advancing sustainable solutions, strengthening collaboration and helping position Greater Akron as a global leader in polymer science and manufacturing.

Join us in welcoming John to the team!

A Stronger R&D Tax Credit for Ohio's Innovation Economy

For polymer companies developing new materials, processes, and technologies, a stronger R&D tax credit can make it easier to invest, innovate, and compete from Ohio. Improvements proposed through House Bill 756 represent an important step toward making the state more competitive for long-term business investment, particularly as Ohio currently lags peer states in this area. The proposed legislation would expand the credit to apply to the state income tax in addition to the Commercial Activity Tax (CAT), maintain the 7% credit on qualified expenses above a three-year average, and allow unused credits to be carried forward for up to seven years. This simple yet impactful policy change would make the credit accessible to more businesses in response to recent changes to the CAT threshold in last year’s State Operating Budget, which left most companies in Ohio without a CAT liability to leverage the credit against. This bill would make the credit useable for over 90% of Ohio businesses, including startups and flow-through entities, and strengthen Ohio’s ability to attract and retain innovation-driven companies.

What's the Status?

House Bill 756 is currently in the House Ways and Means Committee and received sponsor testimony in April. A second hearing was held on June 9, where members of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance (ACAA) provided proponent testimony expressing their support for the legislation.