Manufacturing Extension Partnership at Iowa State University

The MEP National Network™ is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive, proven solutions to U.S. manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing.

Focused on helping small and medium-sized manufacturers generate business results and thrive in today’s technology-driven economy, the MEP National Network comprises the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP), the 51 MEP Centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, and over 1,300 trusted advisors and experts at more than 400 MEP service locations, providing any U.S. manufacturer with access to resources they need to succeed.

In 2017, the MEP National Network connected with 26,313 manufacturers, leading to $12.6 billion in sales, $1.7 billion in cost savings, $3.5 billion in new client investments, and helping to create and retain more than 100,000 U.S. manufacturing jobs.

Why the MEP National Network Matters to You
We have an extensive network of Iowa-based experts to help you achieve your goals. Sometimes, local just isn’t enough. Whether it is finding a national expert specific to your needs, coordinating efforts between your plants, or rolling out a national supply chain initiative, CIRAS brings the resources of our MEP National Network to Iowa to help you achieve your goals.

Our commitment is to proactively help Iowa manufacturers develop and implement innovative solutions leading to profitable growth. We apply our expertise and leverage the collective resources of ISU, partners, affiliates, and third-party providers to provide a mix of transformational solutions, short-term projects, and educational workshops addressing the needs of our clients.