About this programme
The Manufacturing 4.0 Technology Investment Program is a grant run by the Iowa Economic Development Authority to help small and mid-sized Iowa manufacturers adopt Industry 4.0 technology. The stated aim is to help manufacturers increase productivity, efficiency and competitiveness by funding equipment and software that most small manufacturers would otherwise struggle to afford on their own.
The program funds two categories of spending. Manufacturing Innovation Equipment covers machinery such as 3D printers, collaborative robotics, automation equipment and process improvement equipment. Manufacturing Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Infrastructure covers server equipment for cloud computing, cybersecurity and predictive maintenance software, sensor integration, industrial wearables, data analytics and visualization software, augmented reality equipment, and RFID tagging or inventory tracking systems.
Before applying, a business must complete a CIRAS Manufacturing 4.0 Assessment. CIRAS (the Center for Industrial Research and Service at Iowa State University) evaluates where a manufacturer stands on Industry 4.0 adoption, and that assessment is a required part of the grant application.
How it works
The grant covers up to $75,000 over the lifetime of the business, not per application or per year. The maximum lifetime award across this and a related grant program is also $75,000.
A 1:1 cash match is required from the applicant, so the business must be able to fund at least as much of the project cost as the state contributes. IEDA asks for three months of company financials as part of the application to verify the business can cover its share.
A CIRAS Manufacturing 4.0 Assessment must be completed before applying, and the assessment itself is a required submission attached to the application.
Who can apply
The business must be incorporated or authorized to do business in Iowa, and in good standing with the Iowa Department of Revenue.
It must employ a minimum of 3 and fewer than 125 full-time employees across all locations, and fall under NAICS codes 31-33 (manufacturing).
At least 51% of revenue must come from the sale of manufactured goods.
The business must have been operating for at least three years.
How to apply
- Request and complete a CIRAS Manufacturing 4.0 Assessment by the CIRAS assessment window deadline (November 20, 2026 for the 2026-27 cycle).
- Confirm the business is in good standing with the Iowa Department of Revenue.
- Gather the required registration, ownership, licensing and financial documentation.
- Submit the application on iowagrants.gov during the application window (January 4-29, 2027 for the 2026-27 cycle), including the completed CIRAS assessment.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Iowa withholding tax permit number and Iowa sales tax permit number
- US DOT Number, if applicable
- State of incorporation and incorporation date
- Number of employees at each location
- List of business owners and ownership percentages
- Relevant licenses from the Department of Inspections and Appeals, Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship, or Department of Alcoholic Beverages, where applicable
- Three months of company financials, to verify match capability
- Total project budget and planned use of funds
- Amount of financial assistance requested from IEDA
- Documentation of other funding sources and commitments
- Completed CIRAS Manufacturing 4.0 Assessment
Frequently asked
Do I need the CIRAS assessment before I apply?
Yes. A CIRAS Manufacturing 4.0 Assessment must be completed before applying for grant funds, and it is a required submission on the application itself.
How much can my business get?
Up to $75,000 over the lifetime of the business, matched 1:1 with your own funds. That $75,000 cap also applies across this program together with a related IEDA grant program.
What size manufacturer qualifies?
You need 3 to 124 full-time employees across all locations, at least 51% of revenue from manufactured goods, and at least three years in operation, in a NAICS 31-33 manufacturing classification.
Where do I submit the application?
Applications go through iowagrants.gov, during the state's set application window.
Who do I contact with questions?
Anna Lensing at IEDA, phone 515.348.6199, or the main IEDA office at 515.348.6200, 1963 Bell Avenue, Suite 200, Des Moines, IA 50315.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.