Certification Categories
Further information is available on each category, including minimum requirements, design considerations and workforce considerations. PDFs can be opened or downloaded from the list to the right (click to open; right click to download and save).
General Manufacturing
End-users are generally heavier manufacturing and/or integrated assembly operations that align manufacturing cells with the final assembly of large capital equipment. These operations usually require higher utility service thresholds at the site, as well as interstate and rail access (strongly preferred).
Current certified sites available in this category: Iowa City Industrial Park (Wind Energy Supply Chain Campus)
Light Industrial
Operations require individual sites that are usually part of an industrial park, which may include multi-tenant structures. Utility and transportation infrastructure requirements are typically modest.
Rural Industrial
Sites prepared for smaller, owner-managed companies or satellite facilities. Operations are relatively more labor intensive, but it does not always require highly technical skills. Rural Industrial sites are located in towns with populations of fewer than 5,000 and draw a workforce from a large laborshed.
Current certified sites available in this category: Tipton Business Park
Smart Office
Building or building sites that are environmentally-friendly, designed for employee-wellness, and use modern building technology. Smart Office buildings are typically located in office parks, light industrial parks, or a similar planned development, but can also be standalone structures in a downtown area.
Technology Center
Facilities typically include office and laboratory space that support research and development activities. Activities in these facilities are conducted by scientists, researchers, and technicians working to discover information that is technological in nature. Whether a building, site, or office park, Technology Centers must have an official tie to a four-year college or university.
Current certified sites available in this category: Univesity of Iowa Research Park