Helping Business Thrive

At the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS), we help Iowa businesses solve complex problems by providing innovative expertise and strategic resources, moving our clients forward with confidence.

CIRAS is part of the College of Engineering and the Office of Economic Development and Industry Relations (EDIR) at Iowa State University. Since 1963, our mission has remained simple: to strengthen Iowa communities by helping businesses grow, innovate, and thrive.

What we do

We deliver practical, research-driven solutions that make an impact — from improving operations and developing leaders to expanding markets and building a skilled workforce.

Our four core service areas can stand alone or work together to meet each client’s goals:

  • Executive Strategy – Empowering leaders to plan for the future, strengthen performance, and drive change.

  • Growth – Helping companies seize opportunities through marketing, exporting, and government contracting.

  • Operational Excellence – Improving quality, efficiency, and innovation through proven best practices.

  • Workforce – Building and sustaining strong teams with strategies for recruitment, engagement, and retention.

We also guide companies through Emerging Topics such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Applied Research, and Industry 4.0 — ensuring Iowa businesses stay ahead of what’s next.

Our Impact

Our commitment to permanent improvement is backed by a satisfaction guarantee. A typical client achieves a 200% ROI – $2 return for every $1 invested.

Over the past five years, CIRAS and its partners have reported impact from companies in all 99 counties, totaling more than $2.7 billion (sales gained or retained $2 billion, new investments $501 million, costs saved or avoided $1522 million) and over 29,227 jobs created or retained as a result of the assistance they received.

Our Network

CIRAS connects businesses with a powerful network of Iowa State University experts, government agencies, and private-sector partners. From faculty research to statewide collaborations, these connections enable us to deliver customized, high-value solutions that help Iowa businesses succeed today — and prepare for tomorrow.