Iowa small businesses once again have access to a valuable, no-cost resource to help cut energy costs and improve sustainability. The Iowa Waste Reduction Center (IWRC) at the University of Northern Iowa has secured $200,000 in U.S. Department of Energy funding through an Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) energy program to reopen its Energy Efficiency Assistance Program for Iowa Small Businesses.

Originally implemented from 2020–2022 under the direction of IWRC Associate Director Dan Nickey, the program delivered measurable results. During that period, 79 Iowa small businesses received assistance, identifying more than $267,800 in potential annual energy savings—equal to nearly 3.5 million kilowatt-hours per year. Over the next two years, the program will again provide free on-site energy audits and educational resources to help Iowa businesses reduce operating expenses and strengthen long-term resilience.

Eligible participants include Iowa businesses with fewer than 100 employees, regardless of location or industry. The program offers comprehensive audits of lighting, HVAC systems, compressed air, and building envelopes, along with customized reports that outline practical, cost-saving recommendations. Participants also gain access to fact sheets, case studies, energy calculators, and a dedicated energy efficiency webpage.

This initiative is especially important for NFIB members, many of whom operate with tight margins and limited access to utility-sponsored energy programs. By lowering energy costs without upfront expenses, the program helps small business owners reinvest savings into growth, workforce retention, and competitiveness—core priorities for NFIB members across Iowa.

Past participants praise the program’s simplicity and impact, noting how clear documentation and dollar-value estimates help management prioritize efficiency improvements.

The program aims to conduct more than 72 on-site audits statewide, track energy savings, and provide transparent performance reports. Iowa small businesses can request a free audit at iwrc.uni.edu/contact or contact Dan Nickey at dan.nickey@uni.edu for more information.