Grow the Polymer Industry Cluster

Description

Support the growth of the Polymer Industry Cluster (PIC) as a key economic driver for Akron.

Why is This Important

Polymers have been the foundation of Akron's economy for generations, and they remain a major source of jobs, innovation, and investment. Growing the cluster means supporting more businesses and high-quality careers in Akron and positioning the city as a global leader in advanced, sustainable polymers.

Initiative Wins

Supported the 2025 search and hiring of new PIC Executive Director Hans Dorfi.
Supported the PIC in launching a “Synthe6 Accelerator” program in 2025 to improve commercialization and capitalization process.
Announced that 8 Synthe6 Accelerator cohort members and 5 new R&D initiatives received funding in 2025 through the Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub program
Assisted with the identification of land on The University of Akron campus for the Polymer Pilot Facility and selected the design-build contractor for the facility, with site turnover for construction planned for July 2026.

Impact Spotlight

What We’ve Done This Quarter

Selected the design-build contractor in early 2026 for the Polymer Pilot Facility at the University of Akron.

What We’re Working on Next Quarter

Supporting creation of a sustainable operations and financing model for the Polumer Pilot Facility.
Working with Case Western Reserve University to develop an R&D roadmap in partnership with various educational institutions, co-funded as part of the NSF Engine work.
Attracting additional polymer companies and jobs to Greater Akron.
Integrating polymer curriculum and programming into Akron Public Schools and out-of-school-time partners.