The ACE Colorado

Thank you for your interest in the Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE) , which is taking place in the State of Colorado, United States, 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.  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 important 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 and 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, diverse groups are highly encouraged. 

Requirements to apply:

Who is invited to apply?

Deadline to apply: Monday, June 28, 2021.

Early bird applications will be given priority consideration.