Q & A with Mary Zimmerman Role: DBE Support Services Program Manager Q: Tell me about your job and how it contributes to the overall goals of CIRAS to help companies prosper. I work with small construction companies, listening to their unique challenges and goals. This enables me to connect them with tailored resources and … Continue reading Q & A with Mary Zimmerman
Year: 2024
How Preventative Maintenance & CIRAS Technologies Propel Manufacturing Productivity
There has never been a more critical time for small and mid-sized manufacturers to maximize the productivity of their labor force and production equipment. This goes beyond purchasing high-dollar equipment that can run at faster cycle times, hiring more people, or adding shifts in a tight labor market. Oftentimes, the first best step is simply … Continue reading How Preventative Maintenance & CIRAS Technologies Propel Manufacturing Productivity
New Opportunity for ILC Members
We are excited to announce a new collaborative opportunity for ILC members. Starting July 1, 2024, CIRAS will assume the mission of the Iowa Sustainable Business Forum (ISBF). This integration will provide ILC members access to enhanced sustainability and process improvement programs; we believe continuous improvement and sustainability are inherently interconnected and complement each other … Continue reading New Opportunity for ILC Members
Join us for the 15th Annual Midwest Government Contracting Symposium
The IA-IL Chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) is hosting the 15th Annual Midwest Government Contracting Symposium and Matchmaking event on May 21st and 22nd 2024 at Vibrant Arena in Moline, IL to give Defense Contractors working in our region valuable resources and opportunities in this field. Recent world events (State-sponsored Cyber-attacks, The … Continue reading Join us for the 15th Annual Midwest Government Contracting Symposium
Building Bridges: Connecting Safety and Mental Health in Construction
Safety in the construction industry is a #1 priority; however, there is another safety issue that goes beyond physical protection and equipment — the importance of addressing mental health. Companies should consider a holistic safety program that considers the well-being of workers’ minds, bodies, and spirits. I will be exploring further resources and ideas to … Continue reading Building Bridges: Connecting Safety and Mental Health in Construction
Unlocking Government Contracting: Beyond DBE Set Asides
Are you contemplating exploring opportunities beyond those offered by the DBE set aside? If so, you might want to consider leveraging the support provided by organizations like APEX Accelerators. APEX Accelerators specialize in assisting small businesses in navigating government contracting across various levels – city, county, state, and federal. Their services come at no cost … Continue reading Unlocking Government Contracting: Beyond DBE Set Asides
Keep Your Certification Current: Iowa DBE Renewal Process Guidelines
This is a friendly reminder regarding the annual DBE certification renewal process. The annual eligibility review, mandated by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), is a crucial step to maintain your certification status. The anniversary month of your DBE certification prompts you to complete your renewal. To comply, fill out the form entitled “Affidavit of … Continue reading Keep Your Certification Current: Iowa DBE Renewal Process Guidelines
Navigating Cybersecurity in Federal Contracting: Insights and Strategies
In the landscape of federal contracting, cybersecurity compliance has become a critical focus for companies aiming to secure and maintain contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies. These cybersecurity requirements, particularly the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), can be daunting. However, understanding these requirements is crucial for companies seeking to … Continue reading Navigating Cybersecurity in Federal Contracting: Insights and Strategies
Empowering Workforces: The Transformative Potential of Exoskeletons in Industry
Due to an aging and limited workforce, Iowa’s small to medium-sized companies are experiencing the not-so-unique pain points of repetitive injuries, lower productivity caused by fatigue, decreased efficiency, and turnover. Exoskeletons are emerging as a significant advancement in workplace ergonomics, thus addressing these pain points. They offer a blend of human intelligence and robotic strength … Continue reading Empowering Workforces: The Transformative Potential of Exoskeletons in Industry
Get Involved with Rock Island Arsenal and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
By Troy Robbins, Deputy for Small Business Programs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rock Island Arsenal One of the Iowa APEX Accelerator’s best Federal friends is at Rock Island Arsenal in the Small Business office for the Army Corps of Engineers…Troy Robbins! Troy is a huge advocate for small businesses, regularly sends out updates … Continue reading Get Involved with Rock Island Arsenal and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers