Mesabi Metallics Plans Iowa Steel Production Operations

Area Development News Desk

09/30/2026

Iron ore mining pellet producer Mesabi Metallics plans to establish operations in Iowa. The $15 billion project is expected to create at least 1,750 jobs.

The investment will include the construction of a new steelmaking facility utilizing direct-reduced iron (DRI) and electric arc furnace (EAF) technology.

“This is a major moment for U.S. made steel, combining the highest quality direct-reduction grade iron ore pellet from Minnesota’s Iron Range with the most advanced DRI to EAF steelmaking technology in Iowa to supply the high-quality, all-American steel that our national defense, cars and trucks, shipbuilding, household appliances, energy, and infrastructure depend on,” said Mesabi Metallics Chief Executive Officer Joe Broking. “Mesabi is building a world-class steel supply chain that is 100% American. Our investment will create high-paying jobs with competitive benefits in Iowa and Minnesota, generate tens of billions of dollars in U.S. economic activity, and strengthen our domestic manufacturing base."

Mesabi Metallics, an Essar Group company, is an iron ore mining and processing company developing and operating a direct-reduction-grade iron ore mine and pellet plant in Nashwauk, Minnesota. The company specializes in taconite mining, crushing, beneficiation, concentration, and production of DR-grade iron ore pellets for the U.S. steel industry.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Mesabi Metallics to Iowa and partner with their team to forge the future of American steel manufacturing,” noted Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. “Together, we will produce a reliable supply of high-quality, American-made steel that strengthens the nation’s industrial base, reduces our dependence on foreign supply chains, and supports economic resilience in our state and across the region.”

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