CIRAS and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), in partnership with the 4.0 Manufacturing Group and Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), recently hosted a webinar led by Amy Lask, vice president of Business and Community Solutions at NICC. The webinar highlighted the upcoming Manufacturing 4.0 funding set to open in early 2025. The grant will help Iowa companies adopt advanced technologies like automation, IoT, and energy-efficient machinery, offering up to $75,000 with a 1:1 matching requirement.
Grant Overview
The Manufacturing 4.0 grant is available to Iowa companies with 125 or fewer employees across all locations within and outside of Iowa. To qualify for the maximum $75,000, companies must match the grant amount dollar-for-dollar. Applications will be competitively scored, and awards are expected to be announced in early spring.
Eligibility and Process
The grant is open to companies that have not yet reached the $ 75,000 lifetime grant cap. To qualify, companies must complete a CIRAS assessment, which evaluates current operations and identifies opportunities for implementing Industry 4.0 technologies. Andrew Friend, Automation Team Lead at CIRAS, noted that the assessment includes an onsite visit, operational review, and a customized report detailing how new technologies can benefit the company.
The assessment period runs from September 18 to November 22, 2024, and demand is expected to be high, so early scheduling is recommended.
Success Stories
Several Iowa companies have benefited from the Manufacturing 4.0 grant in previous rounds. One company invested in automation technologies, improving labor efficiency and workplace safety. Another company focused on ergonomic improvements and automation, enhancing safety and efficiency for its workforce. Both found the grant instrumental in achieving their long-term growth goals.
Advice for New Applicants
– Companies considering investing in new technology should take advantage of the opportunity. The application process is manageable, and the benefits of investing in Industry 4.0 technologies can be substantial. Smaller companies are encouraged to begin with manageable projects, such as data systems or ergonomic improvements, before moving into larger automation investments.
Key Dates and Next Steps
- CIRAS assessments open: September 18, 2024 Sign up here.
- CIRAS assessments close: November 22, 2024
- Grant application window: January 2025 (exact dates to be announced)
Iowa companies interested in applying should act quickly to schedule their CIRAS assessments. The Manufacturing 4.0 grant offers a valuable opportunity to modernize operations through advanced technologies.
For more information, watch the recent webinar, visit the Iowa Economic Development Authority website or contact Andrew Friend at afriend@iastate.edu or 515-520-2803.
