About

About the Iowa Supplier Portal

The Iowa Supplier Portal is a centralized platform developed by CIRAS (Center for Industrial Research and Service) at Iowa State University. It is dedicated to strengthening the state’s manufacturing ecosystem by enhancing accessibility and transparency across Iowa’s supply chain.

In alignment with the long-standing mission of CIRAS to support Iowa industry, the portal serves as a vital resource for fostering collaboration, driving business growth, and building resilient, local supply networks. By empowering manufacturers to explore supply chain potential within the state, the portal helps create meaningful connections and supports regional economic development.

How It Works

The portal offers an intuitive, high-level search experience that allows users to explore supplier potential across Iowa without requiring access to sensitive or proprietary business data. Using simple keyword input and industry attribute filters, users can view the number of suppliers matching their criteria and see where those suppliers are located at the county level.

Search results are presented in both map and tabular formats, giving users a geographic and data-driven understanding of the supplier landscape. If the results look promising, users can submit a connection request through an action button. This triggers a follow-up by a CIRAS supply chain expert who will help facilitate introductions and provide tailored support.

Why Use the Portal

Unlike traditional supplier directories, the Iowa Supplier Portal is built on real relationships. CIRAS only facilitates connections with vetted suppliers we’ve previously worked with, providing a layer of trust and accountability not found in standard databases.

The portal blends smart search capabilities with human-centered support, helping users:

Whether you’re looking to source locally, solve supply chain challenges, or grow your manufacturing network, the Iowa Supplier Portal is a trusted, strategic tool designed with Iowa businesses in mind.