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, 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
Grants match up to $25,000 per project to expand the availability of Iowa grown, made, and raised foods, beverages, and other ag products
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, 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
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 (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
Engineered Seals & Components, L.L.C. (ESC), a precision parts company in Davenport, Iowa, is working with CIRAS and automation partner Direct Automation to develop a new machine for cutting large seals more efficiently. The solution will improve consistency, reduce manual labor, and lower safety risks. Company Overview Engineered Seals & Components, L.L.C. (ESC) is a … Continue reading Engineered Seals & Components: Improving Seal-Cutting Efficiency Through Automation
Ritchie Industries, a livestock equipment manufacturer in Conrad, Iowa, implemented new sensor technology with guidance from CIRAS. The project improved production efficiency and led to $5,000 in annual labor savings, with plans for further expansion in 2025. Company Overview Ritchie Industries is a family-owned company based in Conrad, Iowa, with 70 employees. Since 1921, the … Continue reading Ritchie Industries: Expanding Sensor Technology with CIRAS Support
Tariff developments continue to affect Iowa manufacturers, and staying informed is key to protecting your operations. CIRAS is here to help you understand the latest shifts and make proactive decisions. In our October 27th update, Marc Schneider, CIRAS Supply Chain Lead, shared the most recent insights across three areas: New Industry Tariffs New tariffs were … Continue reading Preparing for Tariff Impacts in Your Supply Chain – Oct. 27th Update