Parallax describes federal research network, cites $62M state input and strong federal leverage

General Mark Bartman of Parallax Advanced Research presented the Ohio Federal Research Network to the committee and described the program's structure, partners and outcomes.

Bartman said the program — codified by House Bill 64 in 2015 — brings together at least two universities and one small business partner per proposal, and partners with federal labs including NASA Glenn, the Air Force Research Laboratory, the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, and the Navy Medical Research Unit. He said Parallax administers the program but does not decide awards; technical review and executive review boards make selection decisions.

He reported historical state investment of nearly $62 million, nearly $400 million in federal dollars leveraged, and additional non‑state contributions of roughly $40 million from university and business partners. Bartman said 41 projects have been funded since inception, with 16 spin‑out companies and multiple projects showing positive revenue outcomes.

Committee members asked about priority areas (quantum sensing, hypersonics), bureaucratic barriers and the effect of additional state funding. Bartman said the principal limiting factor is more state investment: for roughly each additional $1 million the state provides, Parallax can add another project team.

The testimony highlighted a student engagement requirement intended to provide experiential learning and hiring pipelines between universities and small businesses. No vote or formal action was taken in the hearing on the program's line item.