Bounce Innovation Hub will once again work with title sponsor PNC Bank for its 8th annual Startup Showcase from 5 to 9 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 24, at House Three Thirty, located at 532 West Market Street in Akron. Tickets are available now at Bounce’s Eventbrite page.
The event highlights promising startups that are shaping the future of innovation across Northeast Ohio. The startups are selected from current clients of Bounce Innovation Hub that receive mentorship, commercialization support and specialized provider resources through the organization’s Kinetic, Synthe6 Materials Accelerator and Flywheel programs. All proceeds from the event directly support Bounce’s mission in growing Northeast Ohio’s innovation ecosystem and driving economic growth and prosperity throughout the region.
“This is an especially exciting Startup Showcase because of the recent wins we’ve experienced not only at Bounce, but across Northeast Ohio,” said Jessica Sublett, Bounce Innovation Hub president and CEO. “From the Wall Street Journal highlighting our work to attract a strong and growing workforce in Ohio, to the announcement of NEO-SMART’s award of up to $160 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation, we’re creating real momentum through the collaborative work with our partners across all corners of the region.”
The full program includes a plated dinner, networking cocktail receptions before and after dinner, and the startup pitch competition featuring a selection of Bounce programming clients. Guests will have the opportunity to cast their vote for the Audience Choice Pitch Award, a $5,000 cash prize sponsored by (TBD) provided to the startup receiving the most votes.
Attendees will hear updates on Bounce’s work and successes from Sublett, in addition to special guest speakers and key Bounce supporters, such as Joe Luckring, PNC regional president for Akron, on their collaborative efforts to propel the region forward.
“Entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful drivers of economic growth, and organizations like Bounce are helping ensure that Akron remains a place where innovation can thrive,” said Luckring. “When founders have access to meaningful support and a strong network, they build companies that create jobs, attract talent, and contribute to the long-term vitality of our community. The Startup Showcase celebrates that progress and reinforces why PNC is committed to investing in the people and ideas that are shaping Akron’s future.”