CRGC Offers Grants to Local Companies Ready to Export

Grants Help Small and Medium-Sized Companies Execute Export Strategies

Chicago Regional Growth Corporation (CRGC) is accepting applications for the 2020 CRGC Export Grant Program. The program will award grants up to $5,000 to help small and medium-sized companies across Northeastern Illinois maximize their export activities and engage with customers in international markets.

“Exporting enables companies to reach new customers and new markets, but the process of selling internationally can be difficult to navigate and expensive to undertake,” said CRGC Executive Director Thomas Hulseman. “Through our grant program, we help companies access the global market by offsetting the costs associated with exporting, whether that is market research, product modifications, international compliance costs or other vital business investments. As grant recipients grow their bottom lines through exporting, they ultimately bolster their local operations and bring economic benefits back to the region.”

The grant reimburses 50% of eligible export-related expenses.  Applications for the CRGC Export Grant will be accepted through February 28, 2020. Grant awards will be announced in March.  The application and additional details, including eligibility requirements, are available at www.chicagoregionalgrowth.com.

Experienced exporters and companies that have developed an export strategy are encouraged to apply for the CRGC Export Grant program. Companies that are newer to exporting and interested in expanding their export business are encouraged to participate in ExporTechTM, a national training program offered in the Chicago region by CRGC. ExporTech helps companies develop an export plan through individualized coaching and a series of three full-day sessions conducted by local and national export experts. More information on ExporTech, including enrollment form and program dates, are available at www.chicagoregionalgrowth.com.

CRGC is the regional economic development organization that drives collaboration among public and private partners in order to generate inclusive growth and prosperity across Northeastern Illinois. With support and participation from Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will Counties and the City of Chicago, CRGC bridges local, state and federal resources that are integral to prioritizing, aligning and coordinating economic development activities to increase the region’s competitiveness and grow jobs.

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