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International Energy Fund

Each year, the California Energy Commission accepts applications from California-based companies wishing to compete for cash awards under the state's International Energy Fund (IEF). With awards of up to $25,000 per proposal, the IEF helps finance the pre-investment activities of qualified small and medium-sized companies doing business in international markets. This "seed" funding offsets some of the advantages enjoyed by Japanese and European competitors who are heavily financed by their governments.

Administered by the Energy Commission's Energy Technology Export Program, the fund requires applicants to provide at least half of the total cost of pre-investment activities. In addition, companies are required to secure the host country's strong support. Pre-investment activities -- such as feasibility studies, market and site assessment and analysis, and technology transfer agreements -- are eligible for funding. These pre-investment activities are crucial to the early stages of project planning and often dictate selection for the longer-term project development and construction stages.

Award recipients receive invaluable advisory assistance from the Export Program. In addition, the Program monitors the progress of the project with quarterly reports and regular communication with the project manager. Awards (plus interest) are reimbursed to the Energy Commission when the recipient companies earn revenue and positive cash flow from a specific project.

To receive more details on the International Energy Fund, please contact Brenda Sturdivant at (916) 654-4708 or via e-mail at Brenda Sturdivant.