The Export Expansion Fund (EEF) in Vermont represents a collaborative effort between the U.S. Department of Commerce, BankProv and the Granite State District Export Council (GSDEC).
The funds, via indirect grants, are available to all Vermont businesses, with a concentration on manufacturing companies with 1,500 employees or less in their Vermont locations. However, services companies, including educational institutions, travel & tourism, engineering and other service companies, may also qualify for the EEF.
These funds can be used to offset the costs of U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Commercial Service programs* around the globe with the goal of enhancing and supporting export expansion. Services** could include, but are not limited to, the Gold Key program, International Partner Searches, Initial Market Checks, International Company Profiles and Business Facilitation Services.
Outreach will be conducted by the U.S. Department of Commerce to inform Vermont companies of this program. Companies will need to complete a short questionnaire and also agree to the terms*** of the EEF in order to use the funds.
*In order to use U.S. Department of Commerce services, company products/services must meet or exceed 51% U.S. content. The EEF can only be used for specific service or registration costs. It cannot cover travel, lodging or similar expenses.
**Timing and country of U.S. Department of Commerce services depends on U.S. Embassy/Consulate capacity in the country requested and will need to be confirmed before use of the EEF is approved.
***Terms include the Cancellation Policy: Companies will be required to submit their projects for reimbursement upon completion of the project – if participation in the project is cancelled by the company, no reimbursement will be provided.
Contact Information
SUSAN MURRAY
Director
Montpelier Export Assistance Center / U.S. Commercial Service / International Trade Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
(E) Susan.Murray@trade.gov
(T) +1.802.828.4508