Advanced Industries Export Grant

The Advanced Industries Export Grant is a funding opportunity administered by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), specifically through its Global Business Development division. This program is designed to support small and medium-sized businesses based in Colorado that are operating in the state’s advanced industries. The primary goal of the grant is to assist these businesses in accessing international markets by reimbursing eligible expenses related to export activities. The program reflects Colorado’s commitment to fostering innovation and global competitiveness within its economy. Eligible businesses can receive up to $15,000 in reimbursements, covering up to 50% of approved international business development and marketing expenses. These include costs related to participating in overseas trade missions, international or domestic trade shows, and international market sales trips for up to two employees. Additional reimbursable activities include conducting credit reviews or due diligence on potential foreign buyers, legal fees related to export transactions, and the production of international marketing materials. Costs related to compliance with international packaging and labeling requirements, translations of marketing or legal documents, and obtaining relevant certifications or documentation are also eligible. However, routine operational expenses, staff pay, and infrastructure costs are not covered. This grant is available to businesses that manufacture an advanced technology product impacting one or more of Colorado’s seven designated advanced industries: advanced manufacturing, aerospace, bioscience, electronics, energy and natural resources (including cleantech), infrastructure engineering, and technology and information. Applicants must be headquartered in Colorado or have at least 50% of their workforce based in the state, have fewer than 200 employees globally, and possess a minimum of two years of domestic sales experience. Furthermore, they must be registered and in good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State, possess a commercialized product or service, and be export-ready. Export readiness includes the ability to meet new demand, support international customers, and comply with export regulations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed continuously until funding is depleted. Businesses are encouraged to apply early in the grant cycle, which runs annually from July to the following June, as funding levels tend to diminish later in the cycle. Applicants must apply at least four to six weeks prior to their planned travel or project start date. Applications are submitted online through the OEDIT application portal. To access the portal, users must create an account which may take several days for activation due to manual verification processes. The application requires details on company financials, the nature of the export product or service, target markets, intended use of funds, and a forecast of expenses and anticipated export sales growth. A mandatory market research report must also be submitted, explaining the rationale behind market selection, using a prescribed template. A detailed and itemized project budget is required, ensuring that all costs are clearly defined and align with grant requirements. Vague categorizations such as “management personnel” or “manufacturing equipment” are discouraged. The review process typically takes three to four weeks. Selected grantees receive a commitment letter outlining the approved project, expense breakdowns, and reimbursement terms. Reimbursement requests must be submitted within 30 days of completing the travel or activity; failure to do so may result in forfeiture of funds. The grant does not permit third-party consultants or representatives to apply on behalf of companies. Each company must apply directly. For more information or assistance, applicants may contact Sophia Gonzalez-Mayagoitia, the International Export Grant Manager, at 720-703-2471 or via email.

Apply early in the cycle; allow time for portal access.