As we wrap up another busy year, we’re taking a moment to celebrate what our APEX clients accomplished — and the role CIRAS APEX was honored to play in their government contracting journeys. By the numbers, this year’s impact is impressive: 671 distinct Iowa clients counseled 82 of Iowa’s 99 counties served — reaching nearly … Continue reading APEX at CIRAS: Year in Review
Year: 2025
DBE Certification Update: All Firms Affected by Federal Rule Change
The recent federal changes to the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program have created significant uncertainty for firms seeking certification or renewal. With the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Interim Final Rule (IFR) becoming effective on October 3, 2025, the national DBE certification process has entered a temporary holding pattern. Importantly, this pause applies to all DBE … Continue reading DBE Certification Update: All Firms Affected by Federal Rule Change
Concrete, Cookies, and a Dash of Holiday Fruitcake
As the holiday season arrives, many of us start thinking about familiar winter flavors — cookies, cocoa, maybe even the occasional fruitcake. And while concrete might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you picture festive treats, a few creative industry colleagues recently reminded us that construction materials and holiday goodies have … Continue reading Concrete, Cookies, and a Dash of Holiday Fruitcake
10th Annual CIRAS Holiday Gift Guide
If you’re looking for gifts that are practical, memorable, and proudly rooted in Iowa innovation, this year’s holiday guide is packed with ideas that check every box. From sweet treats and cozy home goods to shop-ready gear and everyday upgrades, these picks highlight the variety of products made right here in Iowa. Here is the … Continue reading 10th Annual CIRAS Holiday Gift Guide
Gregory Welding Strengthens DoD Contracting Capabilities with CIRAS APEX Accelerator Support
Gregory Welding, a family-owned metal fabrication company in Sidney, Iowa, has expanded its ability to work with the Department of Defense thanks to guidance from the CIRAS APEX Accelerator. With support navigating new requirements and federal systems, the company is now confidently pursuing and winning defense contracting opportunities. Company Overview Gregory Welding is a family-owned … Continue reading Gregory Welding Strengthens DoD Contracting Capabilities with CIRAS APEX Accelerator Support
Secretary Naig Welcomes Applications for Choose Iowa Value-Added Grants
Grants match up to $25,000 per project to expand the availability of Iowa grown, made, and raised foods, beverages, and other ag products
Quadyster Reaches New Heights with Cybersecurity Certification
CIRAS partnership helps Iowa tech company achieve CMMC Level 2 and expand opportunities in the defense market. Company Overview Quadyster is a technology solutions company based in Bettendorf that set an ambitious goal to become Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 compliant under Department of Defense standards. Achieving this certification allows the company to … Continue reading Quadyster Reaches New Heights with Cybersecurity Certification
Distynct Corp: Accelerating Product Development with 3D Printing and CIRAS Expertise
Distynct Corp, a technology startup based in Ames, Iowa, is focused on bringing smarter solutions to agriculture through remote monitoring systems. As the company prepared for a new product launch, it turned to CIRAS for help building in-house 3D printing capabilities that would support faster prototyping, reduce production costs, and give greater control over the … Continue reading Distynct Corp: Accelerating Product Development with 3D Printing and CIRAS Expertise
Planning a New Facility Layout for Kinetic Technologies
Kinetic Technologies, L.L.C., partnered with the CIRAS to plan its move into a larger facility designed to support continued growth. Through a structured, data-driven process, CIRAS helped the company evaluate multiple layout options and determine which configuration would best improve efficiency, safety, and flexibility for the future. Company Overview Kinetic Technologies, L.L.C., located in Algona, … Continue reading Planning a New Facility Layout for Kinetic Technologies
National Carwash Solutions: Reducing Strain with CIRAS Supported Wearable Technology
National Carwash Solutions (NCS), a manufacturer based in Grimes, Iowa, partnered with CIRAS to evaluate wearable exoskeleton technology to reduce physical strain in production roles. The company has since purchased three units to improve worker comfort, productivity, and retention. Company Overview National Carwash Solutions (NCS) is headquartered in Grimes, Iowa, and employs 150 people. Since … Continue reading National Carwash Solutions: Reducing Strain with CIRAS Supported Wearable Technology