NSF award positions Akron for polymer growth

Akron, OH – The Polymer Industry Cluster is celebrating the selection of the Northeast Ohio Sustainable Manufacturing for Advanced Resilient Technologies (NEO-SMART) Engine for the National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines program, calling it a significant step forward for the region’s advanced manufacturing economy.

Led by Case Western Reserve University, the NEO-SMART Engine is eligible to receive up to $160 million over 10 years to support manufacturing innovation, technology commercialization, workforce development and economic growth across an 18-county region.

The award builds on years of collaboration among industry, higher education, government and nonprofit organizations to strengthen Northeast Ohio’s leadership in polymers, advanced materials and manufacturing.

Hans Dorfi, executive director and chief innovation officer of the Polymer Industry Cluster, said the investment will help connect Akron’s expertise in polymers to a broader regional innovation ecosystem focused on research, commercialization and job creation.

“The work underway here is creating the infrastructure to move polymer innovation from idea to application through shared research priorities, startup acceleration, pilot-scale assets, employer-led workforce programs and stronger regional supply chain connections,” Dorfi said.

The initiative brings together more than 70 partners representing industry, higher education, economic development organizations, philanthropy and government. Organizers say the long-term goals include creating 20,000 jobs, strengthening domestic supply chains, accelerating commercialization of emerging technologies and expanding workforce training for advanced manufacturing careers.

The release highlights Akron’s role as a center for polymer innovation, citing assets that include The University of Akron, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Bridgestone Americas, Synthomer and a network of manufacturers, researchers and skilled workers.

Steve Millard, president and CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber, said the award will provide businesses with greater access to research, talent, commercialization resources and supply chain partnerships while creating new economic opportunities for residents.

The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program, launched through the National Science Foundation’s Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, supports regional partnerships that advance research, strengthen domestic industries and improve U.S. economic competitiveness.

The Polymer Industry Cluster, launched in 2021 and powered by the Greater Akron Chamber, works to expand Northeast Ohio’s polymer industry through collaboration, innovation and workforce development.