Advanced manufacturing is a major driver of the Iowa economy. It is Iowa’s largest industry, contributing $26 billion annually to the state’s economy. More than 4,200 manufacturers employ over 225,900 Iowans. The industry sector represents 20 percent of Iowa’s Gross State Product. In 2008, Iowa exported over $12.12 billion in manufactured/value-added goods.
Iowa’s top-performing industry divisions hold a pre-eminent position in the United States. Industrial metal processing, automation precision machinery, environmental control systems, digital and electronic devices, and power-generation equipment are highly specialized, surpassing the national trend. Other key industries include:
Iowa’s top-performing industry divisions hold a pre-eminent position in the United States. Industrial metal processing, automation precision machinery, environmental control systems, digital and electronic devices, and power-generation equipment are highly specialized, surpassing the national trend. Other key industries include:
- Aerospace and defense
- Industrial chemicals
- Construction components
- Commercial and industrial motor vehicles
- Food and food ingredients
- Printing and packaging
- Drugs and medical devices
Some of the world’s leading companies manufacture in Iowa, reinforcing the state’s position as a center for Advanced Manufacturing: Alcoa, Rockwell Collins, Siemens Windpower, Mahle, Sauer Danfoss, CNH, Siemens Energy & Automation, Alfa Gomma, NSK Corporation, John Deere, Fisher Controls, IPSCO, Sears Manufacturing, Schneider Electric, Winnebago, Eaton Corp., Bandag, Pella, Vermeer and many more.
Iowa Strengths for Manufacturing:
- Lowest cost of doing business out of all 50 states (CNBC 2009)
- Quality of workforce - well educated and motivated
- Centrally located with excellent transportation infrastructure
- Presence of renowned Advanced Manufacturing firms
- Family-friendly environment and high quality of life
- High-quality and responsive community college system
- Tradition of inter-firm collaboration
- History of invention and product innovation
Read more about Iowa's Financial Assistance Programs here.
See Iowa Business Sphere Vol. 18 No. 3 for more information.