The Export Expansion Fund (EEF) in Vermont represents a collaborative effort between the U.S. Department of Commerce, The Provident Bank and the Granite State District Export Council (GSDEC).
| Who can use these funds? | 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. |
| What can the funds be used for? | 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. |
| What is the process for using the EEF? | 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