Advanced Industries Export Grant

Funder: Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade

The Advanced Industries Export Grant, offered by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, supports small to medium-sized advanced technology businesses in Colorado seeking to export. Eligible businesses can receive up to $15,000 to reimburse international marketing and business development costs. The program also provides access to the Global Consultant Network for consulting services that assist in expanding into international markets, ensuring businesses are export-ready and compliant with regulations.

Note: The award cycle starts in July and ends the following June.
Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade
The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) creates a positive business climate that encourages dynamic economic development and sustainable job growth. We advance the state’s economy through financial and technical programs under the leadership of the Governor and Executive Director.
Global Business Development
The Global Business Development (GBD) division supports Colorado businesses and communities by using a data-driven approach to recruit, support, and retain businesses that contribute to a robust and diversified economy.
Program Summary
The Advanced Industries Export Grant helps Colorado-based advanced industries technology businesses who want to export or are currently exporting. This grant is for small- and medium-sized businesses. It reimburses for international business development and marketing costs. Businesses can apply for up to $15,000 and up to 50% of the approved expenses.
The Global Consultant Network is also funded through this program. Colorado-based businesses can receive consulting support to help them expand into other countries. Consulting services typically last between three and eight months. Consultants offer these services:

• Market entry services.
• In-country partner meetings.
• Other services (cost dependent on service).

Eligibility

To be eligible, your business needs to:
Manufacture an advanced technology and influence one or more of Colorado’s advanced industries (learn more below).Have headquarters in Colorado or have at least 50% of your employees based in Colorado.Employ fewer than 200 employees globally.Be new to export or expanding to a new export market.Have at least two years of sales experience in the United States.Be registered with the Colorado Secretary of State and in Good Standing.Have a commercialized product or service to export.Be export-ready.
Eligible expenses include:
Up to 2 company employees going on an overseas trade mission, international or domestic trade show, or international market sales trip.Conducting due diligence or credit reviews on potential buyers or distributors.Legal fees related to a contract, intellectual property protection, or other issues related to exporting goods or services.Design and producing international marketing materials.Compliance with international requirements for labeling, packaging, or shipping.Translation for a contract, official document, marketing materials, or website.Quality or environmental certifications.Preparing product documents, product registration, or assembly or maintenance instructions.

Ineligibility

This grant will not reimburse for certain activities, including but not limited to:
Any expenses that state law forbids a state agency from reimbursing a state employee.Airfare upgrades to Economy Plus, Business, or First Class for domestic or international flights.Entertainment, receptions, or social events.Staff pay.Routine business operation expenses.Infrastructure related expenses.