One of the biggest questions that companies and organizations face is how to show more appreciation for employees. Most companies and organizations recognize the many benefits. Appreciation and gratitude have been associated with: Increased work engagement and better performance (Lee, Bradburn, Johnson, Lin, & Chang, 2019). Improved team creativity (Pillay, Park, Kim, & Lee, 2020). … Continue reading Gratitude in the Workplace
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
Q&A with Chris Thach Role: Information Technology Q: Tell me about your job and how it contributes to the overall goals of CIRAS to help companies prosper. I help everyone who interacts with companies be more efficient and accurate when accomplishing the tasks they need to do. Q: What skills or experiences have prepared you … Continue reading Q&A with Chris Thach
It’s everyone’s favorite time of the year again…the time of year to start thinking about refreshing your capabilities statement, of course! A capabilities statement is a one-page document that is completely focused on marketing your business to a government agency as a potential client. It neatly summarizes who you are, what products and/or services you … Continue reading Important Capabilities Statement Updates and Trends
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
Q&A with John Michel Role: Government Contracting Specialist Q: Tell me about your job and how it contributes to the overall goals of CIRAS to help companies prosper. I am referred to as a Government Contract Specialist, however, I feel counselor is more appropriate for what we do on the APEX Accelerator team. The reason … Continue reading Q&A with John Michel
The Iowa OSHA Consultation Program offers small – and medium-sized businesses top priority to use this no cost consultation service. The OSHA consultants can help employers reduce their injury and illness rates and help lower the workers’ compensation rates by assisting employers improve their safety and health management system. Most importantly though, Consultation can help … Continue reading Iowa OSHA On-Site Consultation Program
This month, CIRAS celebrated Mike Ralston, President of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) and long-standing member of the CIRAS Advisory Board, for his many years of dedicated service. Ralston’s leadership, commitment, and deep understanding of Iowa’s business landscape have played a pivotal role in ensuring that business leaders have the climate, connections, … Continue reading Celebrating Mike Ralston’s Service to CIRAS
Dawn Ealy joins CIRAS as the new Workforce Services Director. For the past 13 years, Dawn has worked in consulting, with the last four years dedicated to running her own consulting business. Within this practice, she specialized in systems design, process improvement, strategic planning facilitation, and delivering training in project management, process improvement, meeting facilitation, … Continue reading CIRAS Staff News: Meet Dawn Ealy
Similar to cyber breaches, our foreign adversaries are trying to gain a competitive advantage by gaining inside access, control, or influence over U.S. businesses, and the damage they can cause to a business is devastating. They may gain access through various means, such as through joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, obtaining board seats, or planting/targeting … Continue reading How Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) Can Destroy Your Business