Programs Supporting Industry and Innovation

Our programs are designed to strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem by supporting entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and the workforce at every stage of growth. From technology incubation and advanced manufacturing assistance to workforce development and federal contracting support, these programs provide the resources, expertise, and connections needed to accelerate commercialization, enhance competitiveness, and build a resilient aerospace and defense manufacturing base.

Advanced manufacturing professionals collaborating in an industrial workspace

Connect with the Hub

The Hub helps organizations engage with programs that support advanced manufacturing, commercialization, workforce development, and aerospace and defense priorities.

Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Support

The Youngstown Innovation Hub strives to empower technology-driven startups with tailored incubation, expert guidance, and commercialization support that accelerate entrepreneurship across the region. The YBI Engine Tech Incubator works with the Hub to help startups in the region achieve this growth. For over a decade, Engine has helped shift the narrative from industrial decline to high-tech resurgence. The mission of the Engine Program is to empower technology-driven startups with tailored incubation and acceleration services that guide entrepreneurs with access to industry experts, commercialization assistance, pitch deck development, introductions to marquee customers, and any other needs that may arise. The goal is simple – to help, not hinder, startups.

Supply Chain Resilience & Modernization

The Hub aims to strengthen supply chain resilience and modernization by helping Ohio manufacturers implement advanced processes and adopt innovative technologies that boost product quality, agility, and competitiveness. The YBI Advanced Manufacturing (AM) Program creates opportunities for small and medium-sized members of the manufacturing workforce who lack the expertise and capital to gain an advantage over the competition. The AM team works directly with Ohio manufacturers to assist with the implementation of manufacturing processes and assess the use of innovative technologies to improve new product quality/functionality. 

IP Generation & Technology Development Projects

Project calls enable Hub Network companies to address critical needs in advanced manufacturing integration and development. Periodic IP Generation and Technology Development project calls provide funding to regional businesses and researchers to develop, mature, and commercialize new technologies. Projects are evaluated based on alignment with aerospace and defense priorities, significance of the problem addressed, Technology and Manufacturing Readiness Levels (with higher levels preferred), overall project viability, and the strength of the project team and advisors.

Mentor-Protégé Program

This program strengthens and connects the defense industrial base by establishing vendor relationships between capable suppliers and prime contractors. Approved Mentor Firms enter into formal agreements with eligible Protégé Firms to provide technical and developmental assistance. Protégé Firms receive funding to implement Department of Defense-compliant internal management systems. Interested Mentors and Protégés submit white papers on advanced manufacturing topics aligned with the Innovation Hub’s aerospace and defense focus.

Federal Grant & Contracting Support

Early-stage companies receive support with opportunity fit assessments, grant-writing assistance and reviews, connections to experienced grant writers, and guidance from application development through contract execution.

Workforce Development & Recruitment

Certification programs build and upskill the workforce in advanced manufacturing. Internships hosted by Hub Network companies provide students with hands-on experience and direct connections to regional manufacturers. At the same time, graduate student researchers are advancing cutting-edge technologies that address the evolving needs of the aerospace and defense sectors. To close the gap between demand for skilled labor and the supply of workforce-ready talent, the Hub supports job promotion, connects qualified workers to open positions, and helps attract and retain talent in the region.