Polymer Industry Cluster
Applications Open for Polymer Industry Cluster R&D Funding
Akron, OH – The Polymer Industry Cluster is accepting proposals for translational research and development (R&D) funding to accelerate polymer innovations from concept to commercialization through the Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub, supported by the Ohio Department of Development Innovation Hub program. 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…
Read MorePolymer Innovation Pilot Facility Receives $1M Federal Lift
Akron, OH – One million in federal Congressionally Directed Spending for fiscal year 2026 has been secured to support the Polymer Industry Cluster’s (PIC) innovation pilot facility. The federal award was championed by U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno, who has been a significant supporter of the work the PIC is doing to innovate and redefine the future of the polymer industry in Northeast Ohio. “Ohio is leading the…
Read MorePolymer Cluster Update: 2025 Review and 2026 Outlook
By: Hans Dorfi, Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer The Polymer Industry Cluster (PIC) initiative leading up to 2025 was about the opportunity of building on a strong legacy in material innovation and manufacturing, sharing a compelling vision and attracting funding and commitments to make it happen. With federal and state grants awarded in 2024 and strong support from key stakeholders, we moved to accelerate our actions in 2025 with more than $100 million in funding for the next five years. The central and shared goal of the Polymer Industry Cluster is to bring together industry, academia, government, and community to collaborate and tackle shared challenges to drive economic growth that…
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