Supply Chain Center

Find New Suppliers

Unleash Years of Expert Manufacturing Insights: Access Hidden-Source Suppliers with IMEC Project Support

Transform your supplier search into a strategic advantage through paid project work with IMEC. Backed by decades of hands-on experience with small and mid-sized manufacturers, IMEC offers dedicated support to connect you with high-quality, often-overlooked suppliers. Skip the online searches. Leverage our expert network and deep industry knowledge to streamline operations and drive measurable results.

Get Started Below!

Complete the form and an IMEC expert will connect with you about your needs. Get your project going with the help of IMEC.

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Company Background

We are a start-up affiliated with mHUB, Evergreen Climate Innovation, Centrepolis Accelerator, Chain Reaction Innovations, or Spark Cleantech Accelerator.

Supplier Requirements

Ex: : "Cold Rolled Sheet Metal", "PCB Board", "Phenolic Resin Supplier"
Example: "Aluminum Sheet metal, cut and bent using a laser cutter and CNC press brake. Also need laser tube cutting service."
Example: "If the material being sought is Cold Rolled Steel, include the thickness :0.090 | 2.29 mm, Gauge: 13, Thickness Tolerance: ± 0.005" include any technical information an ideal supplier can provide."
Example: "Aluminum - 5052, 6061 Steel - A36 Pickled and Oiled (P&O)"
Example: ISO standard, cybersecurity, DBE certified, ESG... (or any company specific requirements you would like to make note of)
Example Question: "Could you provide an estimate of the volume or quantity of the product you'll need on a monthly or annual basis? Are there any seasonal variations in demand that suppliers should be prepared for?"

Geographical Preferences

Our service can scout for Illinois, the Midwest, or all 50 states, including Puerto Rico.

Logistics

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Let's discuss your submissions, get to know one another, and collaborate!
Is there anything additional that you feel should be included in this request form that would assist in the scouting efforts?
Please drop any images, specs, excel sheets, or information you are comfortable to be included in the outreach to potential suppliers. If there is anything we can use to help in the research, please specify.
Max. file size: 50 MB.
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Useful Resources

Blogs

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT: Strategies for Small to Mid-Sized Manufacturers

Learn some great strategies for improving your supply chain as a small to mid-sized manufacturer in the latest IMEC blog by Joshua Falco.

SourcingSupply Chain Operations
Blogs

Developing a Supply Chain Strategy as a Small to Medium-Sized Manufacturer (Part 1)

In the latest supply chain blog, Jeanne Perron discusses effective strategies for small to mid-sized manufacturers to develop and expand their supply chain.

SourcingSupply Chain Operations
Blogs

Developing a Supply Chain Strategy as a Small to Medium-Sized Manufacturer (Part 2)

In the latest supply chain blog, Jeanne Perron continues the conversation on effective strategies for small to mid-sized manufacturers to develop and expand their supply chain.

SourcingSupply Chain Operations
Success Stories

EV Hover

A electric vehicle charging mount manufacturer in Arlington Heights connects with the IMEC Supply Chain Center to find success.

Supply Chain Operations
Success Stories

FosterWorks LLC

A woman-owned fabrication shop in Chicago uses the IMEC Supply Chain Matchmaking service to find new business opportunities.

Supply Chain Operations
Whitepapers & Reports

How to Become More Valuable to Your OEM

Understand what OEMs are driving for and implement improvement activities to elevate your standing.

Business GrowthSourcingSupply Chain Strategy
Blogs

NAVIGATING THE STORM: The Quest for Supply Chain Stability

Learn about supply chain stability and strategies you can take to achieve your goals!

SourcingSupply Chain Operations
Success Stories

Laser Technologies Inc.

A machine tool manufacturing company in Naperville connects with the IMEC Supply Chain Center to find new markets for their supplies.

Supply Chain Operations
Blogs

INVENTORY CONTROL MANAGEMENT: Strategies and Tips to Help Your Company Maintain Good Inventory Practices

Learn some great tips for maintaining good inventory practices and ensuring long-term success in the latest IMEC blog by Joshua Falco.

SourcingSupply Chain Operations
Blogs

Thankful for Effective Supply Chains

MEP Supply Chain program leaders explore the attributes of effective supply chains including visibility, responsiveness, and the five critical areas.

SourcingSupply Chain Operations
Whitepapers & Reports

What Do You Mean, Supply Chain?

Gain a better understanding of your supply chain and how to solve common problems that may occur.

SourcingSupply Chain Operations
View All Resources
SUCCESS STORIES

See How We’ve Helped Other Manufacturers Succeed

“We would absolutely recommend IMEC to others, without hesitation! If you have questions about manufacturing in Illinois or are interested in engaging with local or national manufacturing partners, there is no better group to work with than IMEC. Their professional, thorough approach exceeded our expectations. We can't recommend them enough!”

Donovan Morrison

Senior Consultant – EV Hover

Learn More View All Success Stories
"Through our partnership with IMEC and the Supply Chain Center, Laser Technologies experienced transformative benefits. We gained access to a network of reliable suppliers, both for immediate project needs and future collaborations, while also streamlining our supplier engagement process. The biggest takeaway? The available resources, emphasizing that seeking help can pave the way for future success."

Amanda Ratliff

Purchasing Manager – Laser Technologies Inc.

Learn More View All Success Stories