Bounce Innovation Hub is seeking qualifications from professional design firms for the renovation of chemistry laboratory spaces located on the eighth floor of its downtown Akron facility. This project, funded through the State of Ohio’s Innovation Hub Program and administered by the Greater Akron Chamber, will modernize and reactivate between 4,000–10,000 square feet of laboratory space to support the growth of polymer and advanced materials startups across the region.
Project Overview
The selected firm will provide comprehensive architectural and engineering services—including design, documentation, permitting support, and construction administration—in collaboration with a Construction Manager at Risk (CMR). The $1.5 million renovation will upgrade up to eight chemistry laboratories with new HVAC systems, improved ventilation and fume hood infrastructure, casework and cosmetic updates, and accessibility enhancements to meet the needs of early-stage materials companies.
Timeline
- RFQ Announcement: October 21, 2025
- Question Period Closes: November 4, 2025
- Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) Due: November 11, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. (local time)
- Anticipated A/E Selection: Late November 2025
Submission Instructions
Interested firms should submit one electronic copy (maximum 8 pages) of their Statement of Qualifications by email to: Susan Berg Herman at sherman@bouncehub.org
All questions regarding this RFQ should also be directed in writing to the same email address with the subject line: “RFQ #001 – Bounce Lab Renovation”
Questions and responses will be posted publicly on the RFQ webpage until one week before the submission deadline.
Questions & Answers
Has Bounce previously worked with any specific engineering firms on the systems in its building? Have those firms performed well for Bounce?
Yes, Bounce has worked with Hasenstab Architects and PTA Engineering on two prior projects. These projects were managed by and contracted directly with the building’s owner, the City of Akron. Bounce was deeply engaged as the project manager on those projects. Both firms performed well for Bounce.
Will the renovation require design for the abatement of any hazardous materials?
At this point, it is not anticipated that there will be any abatement of hazardous materials. That said, the building is 90+ years old and it is possible that some will be identified during the renovation process.
Does the construction budget ($1.395M) include the purchase of furniture and loose laboratory equipment?
Yes, but the priority focus for the funds will be renovation and fixtures vs. furniture or loose equipment.
Will the chemistry labs have any specialized needs? (e.g. clean (ISO level) chemistry, perchloric or hydrofluoric acid hoods, high-volume chemical storage, etc.)
These labs will not likely have specialized such as those mentioned above. They will not be ISO-certified nor will there be high-volume chemical storage. The particular chemistry may vary between startups, but they will largely be working with polymer and advanced materials.
Would it be possible to get a tour of the project site?
Yes.