Industrial marketing, business and manufacturing links from Koch Group

Koch Group is an industrial marketing consulting firm, which has been assisting small and mid-sized manufacturers for over 40 years by offering practical marketing and sales assistance to U.S. manufacturers.

The links, which follow, are designed to assist manufacturing owners and managers find information about markets, industries, marketing, useful government agencies, and general business resources, which can be beneficial to their operations. We also include most major national trade associations geared to manufacturing and a few, very select, select marketing materials development resources - including industrial brochure and web site developers.

Business Information Resources

These links provide a variety of research assistance web sites to assist manufacturers find the critical information they may need to analyze their business, competitors, or new market opportunities.

555-1212.com - This site provides access to Yellow Pages, White Pages, reverse look up ability, company research, area code information, and much more.

Acronym Finder - This site will help you find out the company, organization, or government agency hiding behind those hard to figure out alphabet soup acronyms!

Area Code Lookup USA - Area Code Lookup USA is a one-stop resource for finding states, cities, and even individual businesses & people that are within the coverage of the NANP (North American Numbering Plan). Included in the site are a North American Area Code Directory, a State/Region Directory, an option to use a Reverse Phone Number Lookup, the ability to use a Reverse Cell Phone Number & Unlisted Number Lookup and a general People Search Resources.

Area Code Listing - A listing of the current U.S. area codes by number and by state and/or country.

Business Sources on the Internet - Business resources, on-line, from the Pittsburgh Library. Good place to start to obtain directions where to find key business and industry research information.

Fedstats - Provides links and ways to obtain information from over 70 agencies of the U.S. Federal government which produce statistics and information of public interest. This site also provides a search engine to help in finding specific information in federal agency documents and statistics.

ISO Easy - This web site is dedicated to helping organizations understand and implement ISO 9000 and ISO 9001 models for quality assurance. This is a very useful web site for anyone who has questions about ISO.

Librarians' Guide to the Internet - An excellent internet resource compiled by the California State Library including excellent links to major subject areas from Arts and Business to Weather and Women. You can also search and browse the web site for the best of the Web. This site contains over 20,000 entries, also maintained by their librarians and organized into 14 main topics and nearly 300 related topics.

Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Codes - Nice, well organized, listing of the Standard Industrial Code (SIC) system for categorizing U.S. business. Allows for an easy progression from 2-digit to four digit codes and then sub-listings below the 4-digit codes.

Starting Point - A nice, easy to use, resource which provides information on Business, Finance, News, Technology and more. Provides direct access to many useful on-line resources.

Statistical Abstract of the US - A terrific source for U.S. demographic data presented in more ways than you can imagine.

STAT-USA - A one-stop Internet browsing source for business, trade and economic information produced by the U.S. Government. This web site is a service of the Department of Commerce's Economics and Statistics Administration.

Thomas Register of American Manufacturers - An online version of the venerable green books - ThomasNet. Provides information on 156,000 + companies and a search feature for companies and products.

International Information

These links provide access to web sites that are useful to manufacturers and industrial service providers whose personnel travel abroad.

Chicago's Consular Corps - The most up-to-date source of consular information for the Chicago area.

United Nations Home Page - Provides access to international country data through databases and reports which can be purchased.

The World Fact Book 2007 - A country by country overview of the world's nations, providing major demographic data, maps, and individual country notes.

Manufacturers' Agents / Manufacturers' Reps Associations

Many U.S. manufacturers use manufacturers' agents or manufacturers' reps to sell their products in lieu of a direct sales force. Koch Group has been assisting manufacturers identify, qualify, interview and hire agents/reps for over 30 years. The sites that follow are two of the largest manufacturers' agent or manufacturers' rep organizations operating in the United States.

Electronic Reps Association (ERA) - The best source for information when you need manufacturers' reps in the electronics industry. Site includes listing of the manufacturers' reps chapters across the U.S. and many handy "rep matching" resources.

Manufacturers' Agents National Association (MANA) - The largest manufacturers' agent organization in the U.S. Provides access to their agent member information and advice on how agents and principals can prosper together. Members include manufacturers' agents in all fields representing two or more manufacturers on a commission basis.

National Manufacturing Trade Associations

Aluminum Association, Inc. - The Aluminum Association, Inc. is the trade association for producers of primary aluminum, recyclers and semi-fabricated aluminum products, as well as suppliers to the industry. The Association provides leadership to the industry through its programs and services which aim to enhance aluminum's position in a world of proliferating materials, increase its use as the "material of choice," remove impediments to its fullest use, and assist in achieving the industry's environmental, societal, and economic objectives. Member companies operate about 200 plants in the U.S. and many conduct business worldwide.

American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) - The AAMA is comprised of a variety of companies, including window, door, and skylight manufacturers, component and supply manufacturers, and service and consulting companies.

American Ceramic Society (ACerS) - ACerS serves the informational, educational, and professional needs of the global ceramics community. Members include a wide variety of individuals and interest groups such as engineers, scientists, researchers, manufacturers, plant personnel, educators, students, marketing and sales professionals, and others in related materials disciplines. Site includes a good Resources and LInks section for ceramics.

American Chemical Society (ACS) - Scientific and educational society of chemists and chemical engineers. The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a self-governed individual membership organization that consists of more than 160,000 members at all degree levels and in all fields of chemistry. This is a great site for up-to-date chemical industry news.

American Chemistry Council (ACC) - This association represents the interests of manufacturers of chemicals. The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies in the business of chemistry. Member companies make the products that make modern life possible. ACC members uphold the highest standards for protecting health, safety, and the environment and take a leadership role in ensuring that chemistry facilities are secure.

American Electronics Association (AEA) - AEA is the nation's largest high-tech trade association, founded in 1943. Member companies work in the high-technology sector and include companies working in the software, semiconductors, computers, Internet technology, advanced electronics, and telecommunications systems and services industry segments. Site includes a helpful member directory and Electronics Industry reports and surveys..

American Foundrymen's Society (AFS) - Technical and trade association of foundrymen, patternmakers, technologists, and educators. The American Foundry Society (AFS) was founded in 1896 and has grown to an international organization of approximately 10,000 members in 47 countries. Forty-eight local chapters and 34 student chapters in the United States, Canada and Mexico are affiliated with AFS. AFS assists member companies and individuals to effectively and efficiently manage all production operations, to profitably market their products and services, and to equitably manage their employees. AFS also promotes the interests of the foundry industry before the legislative and executive branches of the federal government.

American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) - AGMA's membership includes companies that manufacture gears, gearboxes, flexible couplings, or mechanical power transmission equipment or components. Other members supply machine tools, cutting tools, and other capital equipment to the gear manufacturing industry; supplies or services such as gear blanks, lubricants, heat-treating, grinding. Site includes excellent links to industry publications and similar associations in European countries.

American Hardware Manufacturers Association (AHMA) - AHMA's members are manufacturers of products distributed through hardware wholesalers and manufacturers' reps. Site contains industry news, legislation information, industry links.

American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) - The home furnishings industry's most comprehensive, one-stop source of information for manufacturers and importers of home furnishings products and their suppliers. Site includes a Home Furnishings Data Source section, AHFA University section, a furniture finding resources, news, and much more.

American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) - AISI's mission is to promote steel as the material of choice and to enhance the competitiveness of the North American steel industry and its member companies. AISI serves as the voice of the North American steel industry in the public policy arena and advances the case for steel in the marketplace as the preferred material of choice. AISI also plays a lead role in the development and application of new steels and steelmaking technology. AISI is comprised of 31 member companies, including integrated and electric furnace steelmakers, and 130 associate and affiliate members who are suppliers to our customers of the steel industry. AISI's member companies represent approximately 75 percent of both U.S. and North American steel capacity.

American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) - The AMBA promotes the development and expansion of businesses engaged in the manufacture of molds and related tooling. AMBA represents nearly 325 member companies comprised of approximately 9,000 employees and representing just over $2 billion in annual tooling sales. Members span 35 states with 12 chapter affiliations. AMBA member companies serve original equipment manufacturers in every industry including automotive, medical, electronics/electrical, toys, recreation and sporting goods, building and construction, lawn and garden, consumer, and industrial. A mold builder manufactures aluminum or steel molds for the purpose of molding plastic products, components or parts.

American Welding Society (AWS) - The American Welding Society (AWS)membership includes providers of products and services to members and the industry. The AWS was founded in 1919 as a multifaceted, nonprofit organization with a goal to advance the science, technology and application of welding and related joining disciplines. From factory floor to high-rise construction, from military weaponry to home products, AWS continues to lead the way in supporting welding education and technology development to ensure a strong, competitive and exciting way of life for all Americans. Site includes certification, career, and educational information.

Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) - Promotes new and developing management and operational techniques enabling members to improve the competitiveness of their organization. They focus on techniques such as Lean Manufacturing, value stream mapping, kaizen, Lean Supply Chain, Lean New Product Development, Lean Accounting, or Leadership of Lean transformation and others.

Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT) - Industry group that promotes the interests of machine tool manufacturers. Association For Manufacturing Technology represents and promotes the interests of American providers of manufacturing machinery and equipment. Its goal is to promote technological advancements and improvements in the design, manufacture and sale of members' products in those markets and act as an industry advocate on trade matters to governments and trade organizations throughout the world. Site includes a great section on industry trends and statistics.

Association of Equipment Manufacturers(AEM) - AEM is the consolidation of the Construction Industry Manufacturers Association and Equipment Manufacturers Institute, effective January 1, 2002, and is the international trade and business development resource for companies that manufacture equipment, products and services used worldwide in the construction, agricultural, mining, forestry, and utility industries. The site contains industry statistics, a good links section, training information, and industry trends information.

Association of Rotational Molders (ARM) - The Association of Rotational Molders (ARM) International is a worldwide trade association currently representing member companies in 58 countries. Members include manufacturers of rotationally molded plastic products, suppliers to the industry, designers, and professionals. ARM International is the primary voice of the industry and the source for information on rotational molding. Members are plastics processors and those who use the rotational molding process.

Casting Industry Suppliers Association (CISA) - The Casting Industry Suppliers Association (CISA) is a society of executives and managers representing companies that supply equipment, materials and services to the metalcasting industry. CISA is designed to help member companies grow and prosper, by providing them with information, education and business opportunities. CISA membership includes most of the leading firms in the metalcasting suppliers industry. Site includes trade articles, industry events, and information on other casting industry associations.

Ceramics Manufacturers Association (CMA) - The Ceramic Manufacturers Association serves as a training and information resource for plant operators to ensure the viability of the ceramic industries. Site contains a member list with contact names.

Construction Industry Manufacturers Association (CIMA) - Members of CIMA include manufacturers of off-highway earthmoving equipment and construction machinery. Now part of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) is the international trade and business development resource for companies that manufacture equipment, products and services used worldwide in the construction, agricultural, mining, forestry, and utility industries.

Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) - Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) members are manufacturers and engineers of conveyors and conveying systems. CEMA aspires to be the Industry Association representing the leading North American manufacturers and designers of conveyor equipment systems and accessories. CEMA seeks to continue to be considered the resource for conveyor safety dimensional and application standards. CEMA Membership extends to manufacturing companies that manufacture conveying equipment (Manufacturing Members), or to engineering companies that specify conveying equipment (Technical Members), in the United States, Canada, and Mexico - (NAFTA).

Electrocoat Association - Founded in 1997, the Electrocoat Association is a non-profit trade association that brings together end-users and suppliers involved in the electrocoating industry to promote the use of e-coat throughout manufacturing industries. Members include custom coating suppliers of applicators, suppliers of equipment, chemicals, paint and, ancillary equipment and finishing applications. This web site includes a buyer’s guide, links, and other resources.

Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) - The Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) is a national trade organization that includes the full spectrum of U.S. manufacturers. The Alliance is a partnership of electronic and high-tech associations and companies whose mission is promoting the market development and competitiveness of the U.S. high-tech industry through domestic and international policy efforts. EIA, headquartered in Arlington, Va., comprises nearly 1,300 member companies whose products and services range from the smallest electronic components to the most complex systems used by defense, space and industry, including the full range of consumer electronic products.

Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) - Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) is a professional organization whose members are companies involved in the metal forming and fabricating industries. The FMA provides the tools and resources needed by companies to improve operations. FMA educates the industry through top-notch programs, award-winning publications, and North America's largest metal forming, fabricating, and welding event. FMA brings the metal forming and fabricating community together through networking sessions, volunteer opportunities, and award programs.

Forging Industry Association (FIA) - Members are involved in the manufacturing of forgings and worldwide suppliers of raw materials, equipment, or major equipment components used by the forging industry. Site contains information on forging facts, a Forging University section, a forging forum and a nice Links page.

Industrial Supply Manufacturers Association (ASMMA) - Formerly known as the American Supply & Machinery Manufacturers' Association (ASMMA). A North American manufacturer trade organization dedicated to assisting its members sell through industrial distributors a complete range of Maintenance, Repair, Operating, and Production supplies consumed by industry. The site contains a value-added partner section and a resources area. [Site not functioning as of 7-2007]

Investment Casting Institute (ICI) - International trade association comprised of manufacturers of precision castings for industrial use made by the investment process and suppliers to companies using the investment casting process. Their purpose is to promote quality standards, collect and disseminate information about the industry, and provide industry education opportunities to members. Site includes industry publications, member directory, and casting industry links and its publication INCAST Magazine.

IPC (formerly The Institute of Interconnecting and Packaging Electronic Circuits) - Since 1957, the Association Connecting Electronics Industries® (IPC) has been guiding the electronic interconnection industry through dramatic changes. It is a global trade association dedicated to the competitive excellence and financial success of its more than 2,500 member companies. IPC is the only electronic interconnect organization that brings together all industry members, including designers, board manufacturers, assembly companies, suppliers, and original equipment manufacturers. IPC supports programs to meet the needs of a $40 billion U.S. industry that employs more than 350,000 people.

Laser Institute of America (LIA) - The Laser Institute of America (LIA) is the professional membership society dedicated to fostering lasers, laser applications and safety worldwide. Serving the industrial, medical, research and military communities, LIA offers technical information and networking opportunities to laser users from around the globe.

Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) - The Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) is an association of metal building and roofing manufacturers working together to promote the use of steel systems in the low-rise, non-residential building and roofing construction market.

Material Handling Industry (MHIA) - Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) is the leading non-profit trade association representing the material handling and logistics industry - the Industry that makes the supply chain work. MHIA’s mission is to create a greater understanding between business and industry of the solutions offered through material handling & logistics. Members include manufacturers, integrators and consultants specializing in industrial material handling equipment and systems.

Metal Powder Industries Federation (MPIF) - The Metal Powder Industries Federation is a "not-for-profit" trade association formed by the P/M industry to promote the advancement of the metal powder producing and consuming industries. As its name states, it is a federation of trade associations - six in all - that are concerned with some aspect of powder metallurgy, metal powders, or particulate materials.

Metal Treating Institute (MTI) - Represents the interests of international commercial heat treaters, captive heat treaters and suppliers to the industry. Site includes a section on industry standards, news, and links.

National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers (NAAMM) - NAAMM is a Chicago-based trade association representing manufacturers of a wide range of metal products used chiefly in commercial and industrial building construction. Members are manufacturers or fabricators of metal stairs and railings, flagpoles, expanded metal, hollow metal doors and frames, steel and aluminum bar grating, and metal lathing and furring.

National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) - A large association dedicated to representing all manufacturers' interests and views on both national and international issues to the U.S. government. The National Association of Manufacturers' ( NAM) mission is to advocate on behalf of its members to enhance the competitiveness of manufacturers by shaping a legislative and regulatory environment conducive to U.S. economic growth and to increase understanding among policymakers, the media and the general public about the vital role of manufacturing in America’s economic and national security for today and in the future.

National Association of Metal Finishers (NASF) - The National Association for Surface Finishing (NASF) is a 501(c)(6) trade association whose mission is to promote the advancement of the North American surface finishing industry globally. NASF was created as a means to better serve the needs of the surface finishing industry by “reorganizing” and bringing together the members of the American Electroplaters and Surface Finishers Society (AESF), the Metal Finishing Suppliers Association (MFSA) and the National Association of Metal Finishers (NAMF). Members of NAMF include management executives of firms engaged in plating, hard chroming, galvanizing, electroforming, metalizing, organic coating, phosphating, and rustproofing.

National Center for Excellence in Metalworking Technology (NCEMT) - The National Center for Excellence in Metalworking Technology (NCEMT) was established in 1988 as one of the Centers of Excellence sponsored by the United States Navy Manufacturing Technology (ManTech) Program. NCEMT is one of the nation's premier resources for developing and disseminating affordable, advanced metalworking technologies. Publications and videos on metalworking technologies are available though the site.

National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) - A research consortium that leads the rapid development of cross-industry collaborative R&D teams to enhance the global competitiveness of its North American manufacturing industry partners. NCMS is the nation’s largest cross-industry, non-profit collaborative R&D organization dedicated to advancing the global competitiveness of North American industry through the development and deployment of advanced technologies. Their mission is to increase the global competitiveness, economic growth, and operating efficiency of the North American manufacturing industry by accelerating the creation and commercial use of advanced manufacturing intellectual capital - knowledge, know-how, processes, practices, tools, and technologies. It is widely regarded as the nation’s premier provider of collaborative research and has managed over half a billion dollars in leveraged research.

National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) - National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), has its headquarters in Rosslyn, Virginia. NEMA has approximately 430 member companies, including large, medium, and small businesses that manufacture products used in the generation, transmission and distribution, control, and end-use of electricity. The association promotes safety in the manufacture and use of electrical products, provides information about NEMA to the media and the public, and represents industry interests in new and developing technologies.

National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) - The National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) is a 501(c)6 trade association founded in 1953. Members include more than 315 manufacturers of fluid power systems and components, fluid power distributors, suppliers to the fluid power industry, educators and researchers. NFPA's mission is to serve as a forum where all fluid power channel partners work together to advance fluid power technology, strengthen the fluid power industry, and foster member's success. The site contains excellent industry information resources.

National Paint and Coatings Association (NPCA) - The NPCA is a voluntary, nonprofit trade association -- established more than a century ago - and the preeminent organization in the United States representing some 350 paint and coatings manufacturers, raw materials suppliers and distributors. NPCA’s primary role is to serve as an ally and advocate on legislative, regulatory and judicial issues at the federal, state and local levels.NPCA members are manufacturers of paints and chemical coatings.

National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA) - The NSGA membership consists of retailers/dealers/wholesalers, manufacturers/sales agents and industry associates in the sporting goods industry. NSGA retail members operate more than 22,000 retail and Internet outlets that sell sports, fitness and recreational equipment, footwear and sportswear. The site contains a tremendous variety of sports resources including a Sporting Goods Buying Guide, industry statistics, How to Run a Good Sporting Goods Store and much more.

National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) - The National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) is a trade organization representing the precision custom manufacturing industry throughout the United States. The mission of the NTMA is to assist members of the U.S. precision custom manufacturing industry achieve business success in a global economy through advocacy, advice, networking, information, programs, and services.

Non-Ferrous Founders Society (NFFS) - The Non-Ferrous Founders' Society (NFFS) is the principal North American trade association representing aluminum and brass & bronze foundries and ingot manufacturers. Members include manufacturers of brass, bronze, aluminum, and other non-ferrous castings. The Society's member companies employ virtually every casting process: sand; permanent mold; investment; continuous cast; centrifugal; and die-casting. The principal metals cast are aluminum, brass, and bronze, however some member foundries may also pour magnesium, zinc, and other non-ferrous materials. Site contains many publications, safety videos, a Find a Founder database, links, and e-commerce opportunities.

North American Die Casting Foundation (NADCA) - NADCA represents the world's most effective die casters creating the world’s best products. Members include producers of die castings and suppliers to the die casting industry. Site includes information on safety, surveys, industry statistics, and a supplier's directory.

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) - The Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) is the trade association of plumbing products manufacturers. Its member companies produce most of the nation’s plumbing products. Membership in PMI is open to manufacturers of plumbing industry products including potable water supply system components, fixture fittings, waste fixture fittings, fixtures, flushing devices, sanitary drainage system components, and plumbing appliances, which are marketed and sold within the territorial limits of the NAFTA countries.

Powder Coating Institute (PCI) - PCI represents the North American powder coating industry, promotes powder coating technology and communicates the benefits of powder coating to manufacturers, consumers, and government.

Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) - PMA is the full-service trade association representing the $91-billion metalforming industry of North America-the industry that creates precision metal products using stamping, fabricating and other value-added processes. It has nearly 1,200 member companies that include metal stampers, fabricators, spinners, slide formers and roll formers as well as suppliers of equipment, materials and services to the industry. Members are located in 30 countries, with the majority found in North America - in 41 states of the United States as well as Canada and Mexico. Site includes information to help members cut operating expenses, improve their industry education, a number of suppliers and manufacturers guides, and general industry news.

Process Equipment Manufacturers Association (PEMA) - Process Equipment Manufacturer's Association (PEMA) is a top management association serving companies in the process equipment field since 1960. Member companies serve the liquids-solids separation, food processing, chemical processing, pulp and paper, and wastewater treatment markets, among others. Process equipment means equipment required when using physical or chemical methods for mechanical and/or thermal treatment or processing of a raw material or product. Primary examples of process equipment are: Centrifuges, conveyors, dryers, elevators, feeders, filters, mixers and blenders, packing and bagging equipment, screening equipment, separators, size reduction equipment and vacuum systems.

Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) - The Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) is the national trade association for the elastomer products industry. Its members include companies that manufacture various elastomer products, including tires, hoses, tubes, belts, seals, mechanical and industrial products, roofing, sporting goods, molded & extruded goods, and other finished elastomer products. RMA members employ over 120,000 workers and account for more than $21 billion in annual sales.

Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI) - The technologies created by SEMI members are applicable to a number of related industries, such as flat panel display and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). Accordingly, SEMI continues to add innovative programs in related technology areas. SEMI, as the only truly global representative of the semiconductor, display, MEMS and related industries, will continue to provide the valuable services that have made it the association of choice for the microelectronics ecosystem. SEMI members include firms engaged in supplying fabrication equipment, materials, or services to the semiconductor industry.

Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering (SAMPE) - The Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering, SAMPE, an international professional member society, provides information on new materials and processing technologies through chapter technical presentations, two journal publications, symposia and commercial expositions in which professionals can exchange ideas and air their views. As the only technical society encompassing all fields of endeavor in materials and processes, SAMPE provides a unique and valuable forum for scientists, engineers, designers and academicians.

Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) - The SPE is a professional society of plastics scientists, engineers, sales professionals, educators, students interested in the design, development, and production of plastics. SPE has become the recognized medium of communication amongst scientists and engineers engaged in the development, conversion and applications of plastics. The site contains a lot of information for members to improve their knowledge of plastics and plastics engineering.

Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) - Professional society of manufacturing engineers concerned with manufacturing technologies for improved productivity. As the world's leading resource for manufacturing information and knowledge, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) promotes an increased awareness of the value of manufacturing among industry professionals and the general public, while introducing young people to exciting career options in the field. We also identify, support and fund improvements in the educational system to better prepare tomorrow's engineers and scientists for the tough challenges they face.

Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) - The Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc. (SPI), is the trade association representing one of the largest manufacturing industries in the United States. SPI's members represent the entire plastics industry supply chain, including manufacturers and processors of molded, extruded, fabricated, laminated, calendared, and reinforced plastics plus manufacturers of raw materials, machinery, tools, dies, and molds and raw materials suppliers. The U.S. plastics industry employs 1.1 million workers and provides more than $341 billion in annual shipments.

Specialty Steel Industry of North America (SSINA) - The SSINA is a trade association representing virtually all the producers of specialty steel in North America including bar, rod, wire, angles, plate, sheet and strip, in stainless steel and other specialty steels.

Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) - The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) is the premier trade association for more than 1,000 sporting goods manufacturers, retailers and marketers in the sports products industry representing over 3,000 business locations, plants and distribution centers and employing more than 375,000 people; while generating $60 billion in domestic revenue and $15 billion in international revenue, wholesale dollars. The purpose of the SGMA is to support our member companies and promote a healthy environment for the sporting goods industry by providing access to insight, information, influence and industry connections. Members include manufacturers of athletic clothing, footwear, and sporting goods.

Steel Founders' Society of America (SFSA) - The Steel Founder's Society of America (SFSA) is a trade association representing steel foundries. SFSA's research programs are devoted exclusively to steel castings. The site includes a section to teach about metalcasting and a section used to access their database of steel foundries.

Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA) - The Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA) consists of 39 North American companies that operate 125 steel plants and employ approximately 40,000 people. The SMA also has six international steel company members in countries outside of North America, comprising a total membership of 45 steel companies, worldwide. The Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA) is the primary trade association for scrap-based electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmakers.

Steel Plate Fabricators Association (SFPA) - The SPFA’s membership is composed of manufacturers of ferrous and non-ferrous custom designed and fabricated steel and alloyed plate for steel mills, railroads, utilities, and petroleum, chemical, water and related industries.

Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA) - The Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA), established in 1984, is a non-profit international association of companies and individuals involved in all aspects of the electronics industry. The Association is dedicated to the advancement of the electronics industry through member education and interaction. Members include users and suppliers of surface mount technology and those interested in surface mount technology.

The Refractories Institute (TRI) - The Refractories Institute, or TRI as it is generally known, is a trade association established to promote the interests of the refractories industry. Refractories are heat resistant materials that provide the linings for high-temperature furnaces, reactors, and other processing units. TRI has a long tradition of providing support and services to manufacturers of refractory materials and products and suppliers of raw materials, equipment, and services to the refractories industry.

Tooling & Manufacturing Association (TMA) - The Tooling and Manufacturing Association (TMA) represents 1,300 Chicago area companies that provide manufacturers worldwide with tools & dies, molds, jigs & fixtures, special machinery, automation equipment, precision machining, turned parts, metal stampings and fabricated metal parts, plastic molded parts, die cast parts, subassemblies, plating, engraving and heat treating services. The TMA membership also features suppliers of industrial machinery & equipment, software, systems, materials and services. Site includes a supplier database and educational information.

Tube and Pipe Association (TPA) - The Tube & Pipe Association International (TPA) provides the tools and the resources needed by companies to improve operations. TPA informs and educates tube and pipe producing and fabricating member professionals through conferences, expositions, magazines, technical research library, networking opportunities, and more. TPA is the technology affiliate of the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International (FMA).

Valve Manufacturers Association (VMA) - Members include manufacturers of industrial valves & actuators including gate valves, globe valves, check valves, and water works. Site includes a supplier's guide and the North American Valve Catalog.

Wiring Harness Manufacturers Association (WHMA)- An international association whose members include manufacturers of wiring harnesses, electronic cable assemblies, and cord sets, along with their suppliers and distributors.

Marketing

There are thousands of marketing sites on the web. The few which follow can be especially helpful to the small and mid-sized manufacturer gain insight into ways they can improve their marketing practices or learn more about markets they do, or wish to, serve.

Guerilla Marketing Online - When you are not a large manufacturer, you may need to market using guerilla warfare inspired tactics. This web site is based on that premise and offers ideas, tips, books, and consulting services. Check out the review of this concept by Wikipedia.

Harris InfoSource - This web site provides search capabilities to identify companies, the ability to purchase a wide variety of useful market research tools.

KnowThis.Com - A treasure trove of general non-industrial marketing information and resources.

MarketingTerms.com - An Internet marketing reference and Internet marketing article index. Site contains an Internet marketing dictionary, a source for Internet marketing acronyms, links to a wide variety of marketing term dictionaries, encyclopedias, and glossaries and much more.

Search Engine Watch - A wonderful for anyone wanting to know more about search engines, how they work, how to submit to them, searching tips, the major search engines

Marketing Materials Resources

Omni Interactive Marketing. - A Chicago-area firm that is an excellent resource for web site design, logo creation, graphical design, banner design and search engine optimization services. One of the best resources on the web for web site design and search engine information.

Regnier Valdez & Associates - A women-owned, San Antonio-based, full-service marketing, advertising, and public relations firm providing assistance since 1981.

Site By Mike - Illinois based Site By Mike offers new media, web site design and Web development solutions scaled to your business' needs.

Synergy Network - This Boston-area firm focuses on both print and web design with a strong emphasis on graphic design.

U.S. Government

The U.S. Government provides all types of services for U.S. manufacturers. Koch Group has found the sites that follow to be especially useful to obtain market information or assistance for manufacturers and industrial service providers. Government data is very useful because it contains everybody, so it eliminates statistical bias.

Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) - The BEA is an agency of the U.S. DOC. Its mission is to produce and disseminate accurate, timely, relevant economic accounts statistics. Provides good macro statistical information about the U.S. economy.

Census of Manufactures - Produced every five years, this census taken by the Department of Commerce is an excellent source of information about U.S. industry by type of manufacturing or geographic area for companies defined by SIC codes 2000 through 3999.

Library of Congress - Provides general and electronic research services for U.S. LOC materials and many reference materials.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) - The NIST site contains information about NIST technology, measurements, and standards programs, products, and services. The site contains a wide variety of useful information.

Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) - The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a nationwide network of resources transforming manufacturers to compete globally, supporting greater supply chain integration, and providing access to technology for improved productivity.

Minority Business Development Centers (MBDC) - The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce and is the only federal agency created specifically to foster the establishment and growth of minority-owned businesses in America. The web site included descriptions of MBDA programs plus good links to resources for small and minority business-owners.

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) - This organization partially funded by the Small Business Administration provides seasoned, practical, assistance to small businesses.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) - This organization provides management assistance to current and prospective small business owners. SBDCs offer one-stop assistance to individuals and small businesses by providing a wide variety of information and guidance in central and easily accessible branch locations. The program is a cooperative effort of the private sector, the educational community and federal, state and local governments and is an integral component of Entrepreneurial Development's network of training and counseling services.

Trade Adjustment Assistance For Firms - (TAA) This organization, sponsored and partially funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce, provides financial assistance to manufacturers affected by import competition. This cost sharing federal assistance program pays for up to half of the cost of consultants or industry-specific experts for projects that improve a manufacturer's competitiveness. This program operates from 11 regional offices.

U.S. Bureau of Census - This site contains a treasure trove of data concerning U.S. demographics. It contains data from the Census of Manufactures, information on foreign trade, and the new NAICS codes among many other helpful sections.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce - The USCC is "America's principle advocate for the American business community." With over 3 million members, it is the largest business federation in the world.

U.S. Department of Commerce - They accumulate tons of economic and statistical data. Great place to go looking for industry and geographic area data.

U.S. Federal Government Agencies - When you want to find the federal agency responsible for whatever, this site can point you in the right direction.

U.S. Government Printing Office - The U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) prints, binds, and distributes the ~12,000 printed and electronically disseminated publications of the Congress, the executive departments, and other federal government establishments. Many publications are free, but some have a cost. The site provides links to access the publications. See also web site http://catalog.gpo.gov/F - This site provides excellent search capabilities of GPO publications and local Government Depository libraries.

U.S. International Trade Administration - The ITA's function is "to encourage, assist, and advocate U.S. exports... to ensure U.S. business has equal access to foreign markets...[and] to enable U.S. business to compete against unfairly traded imports..." This web site contains a wealth of information, including descriptions of programs, current trade news, and extensive trade statistics.

U.S. Small Business Administration - This web site is devoted to providing information useful to small businesses for start ups, financing, expanding, disaster assistance, regulatory fairness, and more. It also contains information about SBA programs and publications, as well as information of interest to small business owners. The SBA runs many programs for small firms including financing, training and advocacy services.

USA.gov - This site provides an excellent gateway to a myriad of federal, state, and local government sites plus links to other useful information for business.

Workplace Related

The U.S. Government web sites that follow contain information to assist the manufacturers with workplace safety and environmental information and resources.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - The web site of the Environmental Protection Agency. Good resource for information on manufacturers' environmental and other workplace compliance issues.

National Safety Council (NSC) - A great resource for information concerning home, community, job, public and environmental safety issues.

Reference

Dictionary.Com - A very versatile resource. Site contains many dictionaries to choose from, a look up function using a dictionary or a thesaurus, a variety of writing resources including grammar, usage, and style guides; writing tips; and other resources and much more.

Dun and Bradstreet - Provider of international and US business credit information and credit reports.

Encarta - This Microsoft resource provides an encyclopedia on-line plus other helpful reference tools.

InfoPlease - Provides an on-line dictionary, encyclopedia, atlas, and almanac for manufacturing and everyday reference needs.

Yahoo Small Business Tools - A great resource for the small manufacturer or businessman containing a variety of business tools, articles, research advice, business promotion, business plans, marketing plans, and much more.

Miscellaneous

Many of Koch Group's clients are small and mid-sized manufacturers or industrial service providers. Many clients are family or privately held. The sites that follow offer legal and general business resources for small businesses.

Center for Family Business - Many U.S. manufacturers and industrial service providers are family owned and operated businesses. This is a good reference when you need help with those family problems.

Emergency Management Agencies - Emergency Management Agencies on the National and State levels, including transportation and public safety, county maps, state highways, cities and towns.

How Stuff Works - An interesting site which offers practical overviews of "How Things Work." Whether you want to know how a specific manufacturing process, a laser, or just your coffee maker works, this is a site with practical information on a vast array of topics.

LawInfo - Another good web site for practical legal advice for the small business owner. Lots of documents and pamphlets and helpful FAQs.

The Small Business Primer on Legal Issues - Presented by North Carolina State University, this site offers lots of sound legal advice for small businesses from legal structure, to tax guides, legal liabilities, retirement plans, estate planning and much more.

Speed Trap Exchange - When you are late for your next appointment, this is a site that can keep you out of trouble!

If you would like more information about our industrial marketing services for manufacturers and industrial service providers, please use our contact form or email us at info@kochgroup.com.

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