A state program that has served 25 businesses in Washington County in recent years has lost significant federal funding. According to the Center for Industrial Research and Services (CIRAS) at Iowa State University, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program has lost its federal support. Earlier this month, notifications were received that the National Institute of Standards and Technology was stopping support for the MEP effective immediately “because it is no longer aligned with the priorities of the administration.”

In Washington County, CIRAS has served 25 businesses in the last five years, with a reported economic impact of $7.6 million.

An announcement from CIRAS outlines that MEP is their largest federal funding source, and the cuts will impact the availability and affordability of services. Although, with state support and support from ISU, as well as other funding sources, they expect to fulfill commitments and retain staff.