Polymer Industry Cluster R&D Grant Program

The Polymer Industry Cluster (PIC), operating through the Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub and supported by the Ohio Department of Development’s Innovation Hubs Program, is offering a translational research and development funding opportunity aimed at accelerating polymer innovations from early-stage concepts to commercialization. The program is part of a broader statewide initiative to leverage Ohio’s established strengths in polymer science, materials engineering, and manufacturing to drive economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement. The funding is designed to support projects that can demonstrate both scientific merit and a viable pathway to market, reinforcing Ohio’s position as a leader in polymer innovation. The primary objective of this funding opportunity is to enable startups, companies, and research institutions to develop and scale technologies that address emerging needs in materials and manufacturing. Priority areas include next-generation materials and process technologies, circular and recyclable solutions, artificial intelligence-driven discovery and automation, materials that support human health, and innovations in energy storage and conversion. The program emphasizes translational work, meaning projects should move beyond basic research toward applied development, prototyping, and commercialization readiness. Funding awards of up to 500000 dollars per project are available, with the expectation that applicants may also leverage complementary programming such as the Synthe6 Materials Accelerator operated by Bounce Innovation Hub. The overall program anticipates distributing at least 6000000 dollars in grant funding across multiple cycles spanning 2025, 2026, and future years. A local matching contribution totaling approximately 2000000 dollars supports the broader initiative, and applicants are encouraged to demonstrate additional matching funds or external support as evidence of commitment and feasibility. Allowable uses of funds include research and development activities, prototyping, testing, and other efforts directly tied to advancing commercialization, though projects must align with PIC priorities and demonstrate clear milestones and budget justification. Eligibility is open to startups and companies that are either located in Ohio or willing to establish operations within the state. The program also encourages collaboration with academic institutions and PIC member organizations, as partnerships are a key evaluation factor. Applicants must demonstrate scientific rigor, a well-defined market need, and a competitive advantage, along with a feasible implementation plan. Strong proposals will show how the project leverages the PIC ecosystem and contributes to strengthening supply chains, sustainability, or advanced manufacturing capabilities. The application process requires submission of proposals through the designated online portal. Applicants may submit a standalone proposal or a combined application that integrates both the PIC R&D funding request and participation in the Synthe6 accelerator program. Required components include a detailed project description, technical approach, commercialization strategy, budget, and timeline with defined milestones. While no pre-application stage is specified, applicants must ensure their submissions align closely with program priorities and evaluation criteria to remain competitive. Proposals are reviewed by the PIC Innovation and Commercialization Committee, which evaluates submissions based on scientific merit, feasibility, market potential, collaboration strength, and alignment with program goals. Additional consideration is given to the extent of matching funds secured and the applicant’s ability to execute the proposed work within the PIC framework. The deadline for the current application cycle is June 30, 2026, and selected projects will be announced following the review process, with funding supporting near-term development activities. This funding opportunity is part of a recurring, multi-cycle initiative, with prior rounds already supporting a range of innovation projects in areas such as healthcare materials, sustainable packaging, recycling technologies, and advanced polymers. Future cycles are expected as part of the ongoing Innovation Hubs Program, which aims to sustain a long-term pipeline of research commercialization and economic development across Ohio. Applicants are encouraged to monitor future announcements for additional funding rounds and opportunities.

Align closely with PIC priorities; demonstrate strong scientific rigor and a clear commercialization pathway; highlight market need and competitive advantage; include realistic milestones and budget; strengthen proposal with collaborations and matching funds