Iowa manufacturers need help developing strategies, exploring new markets, implementing proven ways of dealing with workforce constraints, and wielding technology as a competitive advantage.
With Earth Day on April 22, we wanted to take this time to remind companies of a few different ways we can help Iowa businesses with environmental sustainability.
Only about 15 percent of small- to mid-sized manufacturers in Iowa consider exports as one of their top three growth strategies. Yet in most industries, there are substantial opportunities for growth and profit outside of the United States.
One of the leading reasons that companies, especially smaller ones, avoid exporting is the potential complexity and risk associated with international sales. In Iowa, we have a great set of resources to help de-risk the process at any stage.
Workers at a Des Moines maker of fuel and lubricant delivery trucks now have more efficient workstations thanks to ongoing ties to students at Iowa State University.
CIRAS government contracting specialists know a lot about Iowa businesses. Here are a few questions and answers to help you learn a little more about them:
Iowa State University students have gained even more valuable experience with manufacturing technology thanks to CIRAS’ recent purchase of an electrical discharge machine (EDM).
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) offers a variety of programs and services to individuals, communities and businesses to attract and grow business, employment and workforce in Iowa. One of these programs is Iowa’s Targeted Small Business (TSB) program, which is designed to help women, individuals with minority status, service-connected disabled veterans and individuals with disabilities overcome some hurdles to start or grow a small business in Iowa.
The Iowa companies manufacturing human and animal food are mostly small firms with well-established histories. Despite that history, some appear to be ripe for large-scale change.
Every manufacturer has tried to get better. Many have set goals to be great. Some even aim for world class.
Iowa manufacturers have employed a variety of tools to get there: Lean, Six Sigma, ISO 9001, Total Quality Management, and countless others.
But how do you know if you are “there”? What is great? What is world class? Here are three ways to measure yourself against the best in the nation and potentially get global recognition for your achievements:
Thanks to CIRAS and its partners, more than 8,000 Iowans ended October with a greater appreciation for the people who make a living making things.