ACE Colorado Application Form

Re-Launching our Economies  
Together, We WILL 
 

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your interest in the Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE) , which is taking place in person from August 1-6, 2021.  ACE is offered by the Organization of American States (OAS) as the Inter-American Competitiveness Network (RIAC) Technical Secretariat, with support from the Government of the United States, through the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of State/Permanent Mission of the United States to the OAS.

The COVID-19 pandemic has and continues to affect societies and economies at every level. Inclusive and sustainable economic recovery strategies and actions are necessary to overcome these challenges and ensure that no one is left behind in this effort. As the premier economic development, innovation, and entrepreneurial network of the Americas, the ACE Program offers an excellent opportunity to exchange knowledge and boost collaboration opportunities with regional and global partners to advance recovery efforts and effectively relaunch our economies.

Please take into consideration the following information regarding ACE Colorado: In light of the significant challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in the Western Hemisphere, the ACE Committee will give priority to applicants based in the United States, including diplomatic and trade missions, innovation offices, and other partners from OAS Member States, OAS Permanent Observers, and from the United States. The ACE Committee made this difficult decision based on vaccine availability, current U.S. State Department travel restrictions, U.S. federal, state, and local guidelines, including CDC considerations for events and gatherings, and safety precautions for participants, host communities, and organizers.

During a week-long program, top decision-makers from the public, private, and academic sectors, as well as NGOs will learn from Colorado’s successful models and strategies to advance business development, trade, investment, and partnership opportunities. Colorado ranks first in the United States for employment, with an invigorated workforce and a business-friendly environment characteristics which make this state a valuable case study as we move forwards economic recovery. Over 30 sites in Colorado from Denver, El Paso County, and Jefferson County will present outstanding opportunities for economic collaboration. Participants will move by bus from city to city and site to site, taking in the unique environments that Colorado has to offer.

Colorado will also showcase innovative solutions to some of the world’s challenging health problems, disaster recovery and resiliency, new advancements in energy, innovations in sustainability, and the science behind the next generation of spacecraft.  The enhancement of economic inclusion will be at the core of the program. This globally recognized program is convened by the ACE Committee composed by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of State, and the OAS as the Inter-American Competitiveness Network (RIAC) Technical Secretariat. 
 

The ACE Committee welcomes applications from public, private, and academic sector leaders, entrepreneurs, women and other underrepresented groups. The program strives for geographical, sectorial and gender balance, when possible. Applications from underrepresented and diverse groups are highly encouraged. 

Requirements to apply:

● Have a professional and academic background that facilitates inter- and intra-country development; such as foreign direct investment, trade, exports, supply chain linkages, shared technology, etc. 

● Be able to allocate resources, propose and adopt critical policies, and possess the necessary connections to make identified priorities and actions possible within their country and in collaboration with other countries.

● English fluency. All activities of ACE Colorado will be carried out only in English.

● Have a valid visa (if necessary) to enter the United States and be able to provide visa, passport, photo, and other necessary information to complete travel procedures.

● Ability to participate in the entire week-long ACE program.  Partial participation  is not allowed.

● Ability to cover the cost of airfare and hotel accommodation is an essential point of consideration for the ACE Selection Committee. Limited financial support is available for specific requests presented to the ACE Committee for consideration. 

● Proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of the program. 

Who is invited to apply?
- Ambassadors / Diplomat-rank officials, and High-Level Representatives
- Trade & Investment Officers
- CEOs or High-Level Private Sector Representatives
- Academic and Researchers
- Directors of Innovation
- Economic Development Leaders
- International Officials (multilateral organizations)
- Top Entrepreneurs