Resource List

Led by the Greater Akron Chamber, this program strengthens the polymer workforce pipeline through in-demand skills training and job placement, supported by $6.4 million in federal and local funding.

Akron Food Works at The Well CDC is Akron's first shared-use fully licensed 24/7 commercial kitchen and incubator. Food entrepreneurs can rent space by the hour, but it is more than a kitchen. The Akron Food Works team supports food entrepreneurs in reaching their goals by leveraging resources, expertise, and community partnerships.  

Our goal is to ensure companies have access to the talent they need to remain competitive and grow. We support manufacturing leaders to collaborate with education and training partners to design a curriculum that prepares people with relevant in-demand skills for good paying jobs that lead to great careers. Workforce partners collaborate to connect people with job opportunities and training. Working together, partners generate solutions to align the talent supply chain and remove barriers to employment.

The Akron Urban League Young Professionals is a network of young professionals ages 21-40 who serve as an extension of the Akron Urban League and the National Urban League Young Professionals to promote quality of life for all citizens, particularly African Americans, in the Greater Akron area. It offers opportunities for emerging leaders to participate in professional development programs, philanthropy, and civic engagement.

The “Beyond Startup” workshop series is designed for entrepreneurs looking to expand their skills and knowledge to scale their businesses effectively.  More than just a presentation, participants can expect hands-on activities and actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately to take their business to the next level.

The Building for Business Program is for people, or organizations, interested in acquiring commercial or industrial property through the Summit County Land Bank. 

The Business Commons of Cuyahoga Falls offers coworking plans, leased offices, meeting rooms and an event space for Greater Akron Chamber members to host their next workshop, client meeting, or team session. More than a workspace, The Business Commons serves as the central place for Chamber members to access small business programming, resources, and peer support.

The Well CDC Career Development program works with community members to remove barriers to employment and create access to living wage careers. Classes are a free service and include mental health and emotional wellness, free childcare and transportation, interview guidance and resume and soft skill building.

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; } Head Start and Early Head Start provide early childhood education and development services for children from birth through age five. Employers can connect employees with young children to programs that support school readiness, early literacy, social-emotional development, confidence, problem-solving, and relationship-building through engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences.

The Ohio Department of Development’s Collateral Enhancement Program 2.0 (CEP) was created to facilitate increased lending by financial institutions to small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and women-owned businesses that need access to capital for growth or expansion. The CEP supports lender loans that might otherwise be unavailable because of a collateral shortfall. The program supplies pledged cash collateral deposit accounts – or allocations for credit unions and community development financial institutions (CDFI) – to lending institutions to enhance collateral coverage on business loans. The program is designed to target certain situations in which there is insufficient collateral value to make the loan.

For information about other Ohio SSBCI programs, visit Development.Ohio.gov/SSBCI.

The goal of Diversity on Board is to develop diverse talent for service on nonprofit boards through a program of leadership development, education and coaching. Participants are fully supported on their journey toward fulfilling, effective board service.

Summit County NEXT is for individuals who experience a reduction in public assistance benefits due to an increase of income, commonly known as the “benefits cliff.” SUMMIT COUNTY NEXT OFFERS RETENTION AND SUPPORT SERVICES, INCLUDING INCENTIVES TO ASSIST employees ON their PATH TO STABILITY.

Goodwill Industries of Akron – Elizabeth Clark Emergency Fund is a crisis assistance program that helps individuals and families in Summit County and surrounding areas meet basic needs during times of hardship. The fund provides eligible recipients with gift cards to Goodwill retail stores, which can be used to obtain essential items such as clothing, furniture, and household goods. It is designed for those experiencing financial hardship, emergencies, or unexpected life events and typically allows assistance once per year following a needs-based review. The program serves thousands of individuals annually and acts as a short-term support resource to help stabilize households in crisis. 

The AUL Entrepreneurship Empowerment Center (EEC) empowers small, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses.

MORTAR Entrepreneurship Academy- cohort-based programs for local entrepreneurs who are ready to scale their enterprises, adding to the local economy, and the continued legacy of Black-Owned businesses in Akron, Ohio.

Aspire Academy is free online learning available 24/7.

Bounce's Flywheel Software Program is a month-to-month entrepreneurial support program focused on getting software startups traction through early sales and pilots. Like a real flywheel, the goal of this program is to build startup momentum, starting small and scaling up. Through Flywheel, founders can gain access to an Entrepreneur-in-Residence, discounted professional service providers, access to Bounce's coworking facility, and more.

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; } AFS connects individuals and families with community resources that provide practical assistance, guidance, and support. Employers can refer employees seeking help with food, clothing, housing, transportation, education, mentorship, or other essential needs that can contribute to greater stability, independence, and well-being.

Heart to Heart Leadership is a trusted partner in delivering exceptional leadership and team development programs, one-on-one coaching, and consulting that fosters purposeful leadership and sustainable growth.

UA I-Corps supports teams through an intensive 7-meeting critical evaluation. The goal is to answer important questions about their business, product or technology idea through coaching and direct customer interactions.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a tech-based company

Known as the Incubator, floors 3-9 at Bounce provide leases starting at one year for startups, small businesses, creatives, makers, anchor tenants and corporate partners. 

Spaces come in a variety of sizes but are of 3 types: offices, laboratories, and light manufacturing. Our building is tailored to support, nurture, and connect high growth innovators and provide affordable options so entrepreneurs can focus on innovation, growth and commercialization.

Amenities include:

• Collaborative community and shared social spaces
• Free access to use the coworking spaces in The Generator which includes a kitchenette, phone booths and huddle rooms
• Free conference rooms on floors 6-8
• Access to regular networking, events, and workshops
• Access to the small business support ecosystem
• Onsite coffee shop and café
• Two freight elevators and a loading dock
• Private wifi
• Mailbox and address

Junior Leadership Akron

Plexus is the LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce serving Northeast Ohio, working to connect and strengthen the region’s network of LGBTQ+ professionals, businesses, and organizations. We support employers in building inclusive workplace cultures through our Affirming Business Certificate program and provide resources to help businesses foster belonging for all employees. As a member-based organization, Plexus also connects job seekers with fulfilling and affirming employment opportunities.

Plexus is an affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), allowing our members to apply for certification as LGBT Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs) at no cost. We guide companies through each step of the certification process and help them leverage this national recognition to grow and thrive.

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; } Community Support Services (CSS) provides comprehensive mental health and substance use services for individuals who may need ongoing or intensive behavioral health support. Employers can connect employees and their family members with recovery-focused, trauma-informed services that promote wellness, stability, independence, and an improved quality of life.

The Akron Minority Business Assistance Center’s (MBAC) mission is to identify small disadvantaged, minority-owned, veteran-owned, and women-owned businesses in the State of Ohio to cultivate their growth and sustainability.

The MBACs across the State of Ohio are supported by the Ohio Department of Development The MBACs across the State of Ohio are supported by the Ohio Department of Development Minority Business Development Division (MBDD). Akron MBAC as a component of the Ohio Department of Development Minority Business Development Division that provides management, technical and professional assistance, access to capital, surety bonding, connection to business opportunities and assistance with MBE/EDGE/WBE/VBE Certification.

New participants can register: MBAC - Intake/Request for Counseling Form

The Minority Business Direct Loan Program, (MBD Loan Program) is a business loan program that is designed to stimulate the growth of existing minority-owned businesses in the state of Ohio that are three years or older. Loans are offered at below market interest rates. The Program is part of the Minority Business Development Division’s effort to promote economic development, business expansion, and job creation and/or retention by providing an alternative source of financing to minority- owned small businesses that otherwise do not have ready access to traditional lending sources.

1. State of Ohio MBE or Ohio Minority Supplier Development Council MBE certification is required for the MBD Loan Program. 
2. Demonstrate that its fixed-asset expansion/retention project will create or retain jobs for Ohioans.
3. The business must have its principal place of business and its business operations located in Ohio.
4. The applicant must demonstrate three consecutive years of revenues.

Plexus is the LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce serving Northeast Ohio, working to connect and strengthen the region’s network of LGBTQ+ professionals, businesses, and organizations. We support employers in building inclusive workplace cultures through our Affirming Business Certificate program and provide resources to help businesses foster belonging for all employees. As a member-based organization, Plexus also connects job seekers with fulfilling and affirming employment opportunities.

Plexus is an affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), allowing our members to apply for certification as LGBT Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs) at no cost. We guide companies through each step of the certification process and help them leverage this national recognition to grow and thrive.

OhioMeansJobs serves as a one-stop workforce center offering free, comprehensive employer services to help businesses find, hire, train, and retain talent. Through local staff, employer liaisons, and partnerships, OMJ works to reduce hiring costs, fill workforce gaps, and promote regional economic growth.

The Four Cities Compact fosters Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities within our four communities of Barberton, Copley, Norton, and Wadsworth, and across NEO. The Compact offers an internship program and meets with businesses regularly to see how the Compact can best prepare their students for the workforce.

Summit Educational Service Center (Summit ESC) is an education support organization serving school districts throughout Summit County. Summit ESC provides a range of services designed to strengthen educational outcomes and support school districts, including curriculum and instructional support, educator professional development, special education and student services, early learning, behavioral health and wellness, human resources and staffing, administrative and fiscal services, technology, leadership development, and work-based learning initiatives. Summit ESC also supports connections between education and the business community through opportunities that promote career exploration, workforce development, and meaningful employer engagement. As a regional partner within Ohio’s Educational Regional Service System, Summit ESC helps bring together schools, employers, and community organizations to address workforce needs and expand opportunities for students.

The Side Lot Program is for persons interested in acquiring vacant lots. The application requires a non-refundable deposit, and submission of an application does not guarantee the Summit County Land Bank will approve the application, acquire any property, or dispose of any property to the applicant. 

The Leadership Akron Signature Program is a 10-month program for regional leaders who wish to broaden their community impact. This program engages and informs those leaders of our community’s companies and organizations. It creates meaningful bonds with other like-minded individuals of diverse backgrounds.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a tech-based company

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a tech-based company

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In partnership with the Polymer Industry Cluster, the Synthe6 Materials Accelerator is a premier 12-month cohort-based program designed to propel polymer and advanced materials startups toward success.

As part of the Accelerator, you’ll gain exclusive access to expert mentorship, tailored industry connections, and specialized workshops covering leadership skills, customer validation, financial modeling, marketing, and investor outreach. We will connect you with experienced advisors to overcome technical and manufacturing roadblocks, ensuring your company has the support needed to scale. The program culminates in a high-impact demo day, where you’ll showcase your progress to industry leaders and potential investors to unlock new opportunities for growth.

Synthe6 is designed to support materials-based startups through these challenging stages of development where many innovations stall.

Synthe6 provides comprehensive support to advance both the business and the technology, working to collectively to advance your Investment, Technology, and Manufacturing Readiness Levels.

Services to Support Your Startup

• Prototyping and Testing Facilities: 
  • Wet Laboratory and Office Space
• Hands on Expert Support
• Specialized Facilities and Technical Resources
  • Polymer Pilot Plant for prototyping and scale-up
• Capital Access & Investor Connections
• Access to Corporate Partners
• Professional Services
• Workshops and Assistance

Ohio employers can apply to TechCred and earn a grant towards earning technology focused credentials for their emplolyees. These credentials take a year or less to complete and prepare current and future employees for the technology jobs.

TechZone is Akron-Summit County Public Library’s makerspace. It is a place for making, learning, exploring and sharing.

TechZone is open to artists, small business owners, hobbyists, and creators of all kinds. We have a variety of tools available for free, or little cost.

Creating something yourself is what a makerspace is all about. You have the idea. We have the tools. Come make your thing.

We have over 30 computers available free to the public. Our knowledgeable staff can help you if you have basic questions regarding software and machines. If you need some more help with technology, we teach free computer classes at branches and the Main Library computer lab, and we’re also available for individualized help at our 1 on 1 Tech Helps offered at branches check the class schedule for times and day.

Book An Appointment online to use any of the desired equipment - 

Media Printer, Banner Printer, Button Maker, Digital Media Studio, Sewing Machine, Silhouette Cameo, Mac Recording Studio, Media Transfer Station, Mini Sticker Printer, PC Recording Studio, Laser Engraver

Located on the first two floors of Bounce, The Generator is a modern and inspiring coworking and event space designed to support entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. 

Offering a range of workspace options— from open seating and private offices to meeting rooms and dedicated desks—The Generator fosters creativity, collaboration, and productivity in a beautifully designed setting. 

Enjoy access to high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and locally curated artwork, along with beverages and food from Kabylia Baguette.

Amenities

• High-speed secure Wi-Fi
• Onsite team including reception
• Onsite cafe
• All gender bathrooms
• Printers
• Phone booths
• Whiteboards
• Video equipment
• Meeting rooms
• Event spaces
• Video conferencing
• Educational and networking events
• Kitchenette

The Maker House is a community hub that offers a wide range of services and resources that prioritize women in the community but is inclusive to all.

The Maker House offers the following amenities for guests to enjoy:

• Two studio spaces
• State-of-the-art equipment and materials
• Two private bedrooms
• Two full bathrooms
• Meeting room
• Kitchen with direct access to People's Park

Equipment available includes:

• Baby Lock 6-Needle Embroidery Machine (Model BMP6)
• Brother Innov-is Pacesetter Sewing Machine
• Baby Lock Celebrate Serger
• Glowforge Pro Laser Cutter
• Brother ScanNCut
• Palmetto Sublimation Printer

Visit website for all upcoming Classes & Workshops.

The Akron Urban League supports the corporate community’s efforts to find, advance, and retain employees by providing the following services to help create opportunities:

Career Clothing Closet - Free business attire and accessories to job seekers and professionals in need.

Career Navigator - Career coaching, interview preparation, and more.

Training and Certifications 

The Restorative Services Center provides:

Barrier Removal

Job Placement

Record Expungement