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GAR Awards Nearly $1.3 Million to more than 20 Akron-Area Nonprofits

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GAR Foundation awarded nearly $1.3 million in grants to over 20 Akron-area nonprofit organizations following its November distribution committee meeting. 

Among the organizations receiving support, GAR is highlighting two that are fueling local economic growth: Bounce Innovation Hub and Western Reserve Community Fund.

Bounce Innovation Hub, a recipient of $100,000 in operating support, is advancing its role as a central resource for local entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups. Over the past year, Bounce has sharpened its focus on strengthening the region’s innovation economy, particularly through support for materials and polymer-related companies.  

In collaboration with the Polymer Industry Cluster, Bounce launched Synthe6, a year-long cohort-based accelerator program offering both business and technical guidance to founders. The program helps polymer and advanced materials startups move past critical hurdles like product validation and scaling, which are common barriers to progress. By combining Bounce’s entrepreneurial expertise with the Cluster’s deep industry knowledge, Synthe6 is building Akron’s pipeline of next-generation materials companies.  

"Akron has a history of building things that matter, and we are proud to help the next generation of innovators carry that tradition forward," said Jessica Sublett, CEO of Bounce Innovation Hub. "Our team works closely with local entrepreneurs who are developing new materials and technologies that have real potential to create jobs and drive growth. Their progress shows what is possible when people have the support they need to bring good ideas to life."

While Bounce is helping early-stage founders build and scale their ideas, other partners are ensuring that small businesses across Akron have the financial tools and know-how to grow and thrive.

Western Reserve Community Fund (WRCF) received $100,000 in operating support as Akron's local Community Development Financial Institution. WRCF focuses on small businesses and nonprofits that have difficulty accessing traditional lending due to factors such as credit history, lack of collateral, or limited financial experience. The organization also provides hands-on technical assistance to help business owners strengthen their financial practices and become more competitive for traditional lending.

"Small business owners in our area have the talent and the drive to succeed, and our role is to help them overcome barriers that stand in their way," said Rachel Bridenstine, Executive Director of Western Reserve Community Fund. "When a business owner receives guidance, training, and access to fair capital, it not only strengthens their company, it strengthens our community as a whole. We see that impact every day."  

GAR Foundation President Christine Amer Mayer noted the importance of these local economic development efforts.

"Entrepreneurs and small business owners play a vital role in Akron’s economic momentum. Bounce and Western Reserve Community Fund are giving them the tools, expertise, and capital needed to move from potential to progress. Their impact is felt across the entire local economy."

In addition to operating support, GAR invests in capacity-building initiatives that strengthen nonprofit leadership and sustainability. This quarter, microgrants of up to $1,000 were awarded to 24 grantees to help them provide professional development and business training for staff, leadership teams, and boards.

Through these investments, GAR Foundation reaffirms its mission to make Akron smarter, stronger, and more vibrant—supporting education; economic, workforce, and community development; arts and culture; and basic needs in the region.  

Among the grants awarded are the following: