Now that the season for road construction has begun, safety is essential. Road construction projects are vital for infrastructure development but come with significant risks. For small Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), prioritizing safety not only protects workers but also helps prevent costly delays and ensures compliance. Here are key safety measures tailored for small DBEs: … Continue reading Road Construction Safety Tips for DBE Businesses
Author: gmallen
Building Strong Partnerships With Prime Contractors: Key Strategies for DBEs
Forming strong partnerships with prime contractors and other businesses is vital for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) to secure contracts, expand capabilities, and enhance credibility. Success relies on strategy, persistence, and effective communication. Below are six recommended strategies DBEs should consider applying to position themselves as trustworthy partners and achieve sustainable business growth: Understand Prime Contractor … Continue reading Building Strong Partnerships With Prime Contractors: Key Strategies for DBEs
DBEs Expanding Opportunities: Getting Certified in Another State
For Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) aiming to broaden their opportunities, obtaining certification in another state can lead to new contracts and substantial business growth. Before pursuing interstate certification, a DBE must first secure certification in its home state. Although each state has its own specific requirements, the general steps for obtaining interstate certification typically include: … Continue reading DBEs Expanding Opportunities: Getting Certified in Another State
How to Minimize Risks Through Supply Chain Mapping
Since the pandemic, supply chain disruptions have become a regular challenge for manufacturers. They can happen at any time and have a significant impact on operations.
“Late is Late” and Electronic Proposal Submissions
Federal government agencies are increasingly requiring offerors to submit their proposals electronically, whether by email or through a portal. While electronic proposal submissions can be convenient, they also pose risks to contractors–especially those who may be inclined to wait to hit “submit” until very close to the proposal deadline. Under the strict “late is late” … Continue reading “Late is Late” and Electronic Proposal Submissions
CIRAS Supports the Restoration of Historical Dairy Fountain
When University Museums at Iowa State sought to restore the iconic History of Dairying Fountain in the Food Sciences Building, CIRAS, through their connections at the Digital Manufacturing Lab Powered by Alliant Energy, provided crucial support and introduced them to campus resources able to assist. Under President Wendy Wintersteen’s leadership, the project leveraged advanced technology … Continue reading CIRAS Supports the Restoration of Historical Dairy Fountain
America’s Cultivation Corridor: Why Iowa? Five Questions with Mike O’Donnell
Mike O’Donnell brings a background in engineering and global manufacturing to his role as director of the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University. Since 1963, CIRAS has been focused on helping Iowa industry improve. The center’s team of experts brings first-hand practical experience to their roles in helping Iowa companies solve complex … Continue reading America’s Cultivation Corridor: Why Iowa? Five Questions with Mike O’Donnell
Navigating Construction Industry Training (CIT) Funding Reimbursement: A Step-by-Step Guide
The construction industry and the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) understand the importance of maintaining qualified employees in the construction workforce. Better trained and more qualified workers produce a higher quality product. Experienced workers retire and skilled people to replace them are difficult to find. As a result, training employees working on Iowa DOT let … Continue reading Navigating Construction Industry Training (CIT) Funding Reimbursement: A Step-by-Step Guide
Selected Small Business Mentor Protégé Programs
Mentor-protégé programs offer numerous benefits to both mentors and protégés. These programs are designed to foster the development of small businesses by pairing them with experienced mentors who can provide guidance, support, and valuable resources. For protégés, the benefits include increased access to government contracting opportunities, enhanced business development, and improved technical and management skills. … Continue reading Selected Small Business Mentor Protégé Programs
9th Annual CIRAS Holiday Gift List
One of our favorite times of the year is here! ‘Tis the season to remind everybody that there are awesome Iowa-made products to give as gifts! 1. Perfect for a winter home makeover! Custom quartz countertops from Quartz Impressions add elegance and durability, transforming any kitchen or bathroom. 2. Pamper your furry friends with a … Continue reading 9th Annual CIRAS Holiday Gift List