DENVER -- The Advanced Industries (AI) Export Accelerator Grant program is now accepting applications from current and aspiring Colorado exporters in the advanced industries who are looking to offset international business development activities. This program was paused last year due to COVID-19 but has since been reinstated.
Grants are available for up to $15,000 in eligible costs for small and medium-sized AI businesses in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, bioscience, electronics, energy and natural resources, infrastructure engineering, and technology and information.
Grants can be used to help cover the costs of participating in trade missions and attending trade shows, translation services for a contract or official document, intellectual property protection, conducting due diligence or credit reviews on potential buyers or distributors, and production and design of international marketing materials.
The AI Export Accelerator grant program is administered by the Global Business Development division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT).
Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. This is a competitive grant process with limited opportunities for funding. Projects and/or activities must be finished by June 30, 2022.
Companies that are considering exporting or those that are currently exporting are also encouraged to use the Global Consultant Network as a complement to the AI Export Accelerator program.
The Global Consultant Network provides a network of international consultants who connect Colorado companies to global opportunities. Colorado companies have access to international consultants in major markets including Canada, Mexico, Brazil, UK, France, Germany, Japan, UAE and China that provide valuable in-country market research.
These consultants can assist Colorado companies to:
- understand the opportunity for a product or service in their international market
- navigate the local regulatory and business environment
- identify potential in-market partners
- set meetings with potential partners and attend meetings upon request
OEDIT offsets the cost of these services. Those interested in the Global Consultant Network can apply through the STEP Grant Application. Apply online through the OEDIT application portal. For more information, contact Sophia Gonzalez-Mayagoitia, International Export Grant Manager at OEDIT.