Iowa State University Extension

Business and Industry Highlights

CIRAS -- The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) provides education, research, and technical assistance to Iowa industry through partnerships with Iowa's universities, community colleges and government agencies. Assistance is supported in part by the DoC/NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership, the DoD/DLA Procurement Technical Assistance Program and the DoC/EDA University Center Program.

 AgMRC -- The Agricultural Marketing Resource Center provides independent producers and processors with critical information needed to build successful value-added agriculture enterprises.

The Value Added Agriculture Program provides unbiased, science-based information to help establish or expand agricultural-related businesses in Iowa. Whether it's a new start-up, or an established business wanting to expand, the VAAP works directly with the owners of the business.

Business and Industry News

7/18/2008 - Look for ISU Extension’s CY-Riders on RAGBRAI
Look for ISU Extension's CY-Riders along the RAGBRAI route or follow them virtually, via the team Web site.

7/17/2008 - Communities Have Land Use Planning Issues after 2008 Floods
Iowa communities have land use planning issues to deal with as they prepare for life after the floods of 2008.Iowa State University (ISU) experts answer questions about floodplains, zoning and other flood recovery issues.

7/14/2008 - ISU Extension Audio: CIRAS Flood Survey Update
Ron Cox, director of the Center for Industrial Research and Service, comments on the findings of a survey of Iowa industries in areas affected by flooding.

7/2/2008 - Survey of Iowa Industry Reveals Ongoing Challenges to Flood Recovery
Depleted workforces, lost revenues and a lack of basic resources are just some of the challenges facing Iowa manufacturers as the floods of 2008 recede. A survey of more than 800 companies shows that 53 percent have been affected by the floods, according to Iowa State University Extension’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS).

6/27/2008 - CIRAS Makes Sure Iowa Industry Gets Fair Share of Funding to Rebuild
With the potential for millions of dollars in disaster relief coming into the state, ISU Extension’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) is identifying the areas where funding will have the greatest impact for industry to rebuild and return to normal production.

6/26/2008 - ISU Research Farm will host biomass plot tours
Tours at the Ag Engineering and Agronomy Research Farm on Monday, Aug. 26, and Friday, Aug. 29, will precede and follow the Farm Progress Show being held nearby.