Start-Up Success in the Polymer Industry

Ohio's strong background in the development and manufacturing of polymers and advanced materials has paved the way for start-up companies. Availability of state programs, access to a highly skilled workforce and collaboration among government, industry and academia make Ohio a hot market for success in the polymer industry.

One example of a successful new company is Akron Polymer Systems Inc. (APS). Founded in 2002, APS is a spin-off from the University of Akron founded in 2002. APS makes high-performance polymers and advanced materials commonly used in liquid crystal display (LCD) technologies. In the five years since its launch, APS has grown to a nationally recognized and respected business impacting the way global corporations are using polymers and advanced materials. Just one of the commercial products developed by APS generated more than $100 million in sales in 2006.

Bill Fuller, vice president of business development for APS, attributes the company’s success to Ohio's strong history in polymers and access to the industry's top minds.

Q: Do you think Ohio's strength in the polymer industry is an important site selection factor? Please share your thoughts.

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• Published under Polymers/Plastics