Bounce Innovation Hub and Urban League Announce Transition of MORTAR Program

 Bounce Innovation Hub (Bounce) and Akron Urban League or AUL (Akron, OH) announce the transition of the MORTAR Entrepreneurship Academy (MORTAR) program from Bounce to AUL, a move that further strengthens the collaborative relationship between the two organizations and reflects a shared commitment to streamlining and aligning resources across the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

MORTAR is a nationally recognized entrepreneurship program built in Cincinnati, Ohio designed to support underrepresented entrepreneurs and small business owners as they build and grow their companies. Since bringing the program to Akron in 2020 with the support of the City of Akron, Burton D. Morgan Foundation, and GAR Foundation, Bounce has hosted 12 MORTAR cohorts and 150 entrepreneurs through the cohort-based training, mentorship, and community support.

With this transition, AUL will take the lead in delivering MORTAR as part of its suite of Entrepreneur Empowerment Center programs. This shift allows both organizations to focus on their core strengths while ensuring continuity and expanded access to services for historically underserved entrepreneurs.

“We’re excited to continue the important work of the MORTAR program and honored to carry forward the legacy Bounce Innovation Hub has built with the program,” said John Williams, President and CEO of the Akron Urban League. “We value our continued partnership with Bounce, which enables us to provide comprehensive support by leveraging the unique strengths of both organizations. This transition aligns seamlessly with the Akron Urban League’s mission to empower entrepreneurs through access to high-quality training, personalized coaching, and meaningful opportunities. We look forward to welcoming new cohorts, reconnecting with alumni, and helping more small business owners realize their full potential. We are especially grateful to the Burton D. Morgan Foundation, whose investment has been foundational to the MORTAR program in Akron since its launch and remains critical to empowering entrepreneurs and expanding opportunity across our community.”

Bounce Innovation Hub CEO Jessica Sublett added, “It’s been an incredible honor to bring the MORTAR program to Akron and to help lay the foundation for so many entrepreneurs in our community. Watching the growth and success of our graduates has been one of the most rewarding parts of our work. We’re thrilled that Akron Urban League will take the reins and infuse the program with fresh energy and perspective. Their leadership and deep-rooted connections will help MORTAR continue to thrive and expand its impact.”

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