The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program is an excellent chance for you to expand your business's reach and capabilities. With up to $35,000 in funding available, you can cover essential costs like travel, housing, and materials that contribute to your professional development in international trade. This program isn’t just about the money; it provides hands-on experience promoting American exports and enhancing trade. You’ll also build valuable connections at a U.S. diplomatic mission overseas, opening doors for future collaborations.

Additionally, you’ll gain insights into global markets and trade compliance, which can directly benefit your strategic planning. This is an opportunity to transform your business presence on the international stage while gaining knowledge that can lead to better decision-making and operations. With the support of mentors, you won’t be navigating this journey alone; you’ll have expert guidance to enhance your learning experience and professional growth.

Getting involved is straightforward, as there are no strict revenue or employee requirements. The benefits from participating can elevate your business, driving growth and fostering a network that supports your future endeavors. You’re not just applying for funding; you’re investing in your business potential.

The financing offered is a grant of up to $35,000. This grant supports your participation in an eight-week fellowship program at a U.S. diplomatic mission overseas.

Repayment Terms

• No repayment is required unless:

  • Fraudulent behavior occurs.
  • You do not meet the program’s deliverables within the set timeframe.

  Eligible Expenses

  The funds can be used for:

• Travel to and from the Department of Commerce facility
• Housing costs
• Per diem for living expenses
• Books and materials

Ineligible Expenses

Funds cannot be used for research costs. However, health insurance coverage during the program can be paid for with grant funds.

Additional Fees

There are no fees associated with the program, making it a straightforward opportunity for you to enhance your skills and experience without financial burdens.

• Must be an individual who is a U.S. citizen or U.S. national.
• Must be in the first year of an eligible Master’s degree program, or will complete their first year in the spring or summer of 2024.
• Must be enrolled at a U.S. accredited institution.
• Must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.30 in their graduate program or from undergraduate studies.
• Must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.30 throughout the Master’s degree program.
• Must be able to travel overseas and pass a Security Assurance Check.
• No minimum or maximum number of employees is required.
• No minimum or maximum revenue qualifications.
• All legal and profit structures are applicable.

Disqualifications:

• Individuals enrolled in Master’s degree programs of less than a two-year duration are not eligible.
• Those in the last year of their Master’s program are not eligible.

This program offers you a chance to receive up to $35,000. This funding can help cover costs like travel, housing, and materials related to your professional growth in international trade. It is a solid opportunity to enhance your skills and expand your business network through an overseas experience at a U.S. diplomatic mission.

The funding you receive will need to be repaid if there’s any fraudulent activity or if you don’t meet the program requirements, such as completing the necessary projects on time. You’ll need to maintain a strong academic record and participate actively in the program activities, which include a one-week training and an Individual Post Analysis Report, among other deliverables.

In short, this program can be a valuable stepping stone for your business. You will gain firsthand experience in promoting American exports and trade while building connections that could support your business. It’s not just funding; it’s about starting a journey that can elevate your business presence on the global stage.