MDCP-Generated Hosiery Exports Exceed $25 Million
Since November 2005, ITA has worked with Hickory, NC-based Hosiery Technology Center (HTC) to boost the competitiveness of U.S. hosiery producers. HTC helps ensure a high level of quality with its research and testing activity. However, HTC also works closely with ITA to prepare U.S. firms to enter new foreign markets and to continue to commit to these markets.

(Photo courtesy of Reuters.) U.S. hosiery producers have found that consumers in Japan and northern Europe appreciate the kind of quality hosiery that U.S. producers offer. With $397,000 in federal financial assistance and help from ITA's Office of Textile and Apparel and Commercial Service, several U.S. firms have secured supply contracts in new markets. Since HTC began its MDCP partnership with ITA in November 2005, it has helped U.S. firms generate $25 million in exports. See HTC MDCP Award for more information.

All Applicants Should Now Have Proof of Receipt
For all applications that were received on July 31, we sent an email acknowledging "receipt" or, if the application was submitted to our courier center, a date-stamp return-receipt. Thanks to all who worked so hard preparing applications. Most of the applicants had already secured letters of eligibility. For those that did not do so, we will be reviewing the submitted documents and making the determinations as quickly as possible.

No Word on Selection of Awardees Until Mid-October
We try to notify award winners and unsuccessful applicants as early in October as possible. As soon as we have news to share, whether good or bad, we will share it with each applicant. Public announcements on this website or in press releases usually happen separately for each new awardee.

Performance Measurement Explained in Greater Detail
We recently posted an annotated version of the quarterly report template on the "About MDCP" page. We also added copies of two of the principal documents that govern MDCP awards. These documents, the standard terms and conditions, and the special award conditions, are included as part of the packet that each MDCP award winner receives. They are for reference only and should not be submitted by applicants.

How to Know if You Are On Our Email Contact List
If you received an email in June or July updating you on the status of the 2008 MDCP competition, then you are on the list. If you did not receive an email and you have not received an email since then notifying you that you are on the list, please email Brad.Hess@mail.doc.gov

Familiarity with ITA Will Help You Succeed
In order to prepare a good application, it is important to demonstrate knowledge of what International Trade Administration resources are available. To find out more about ITA, click on the links in the "Related Links" box.

Review this website. Determine whether your organization is eligible. Contact us. Then contact your local ITA office and the relevant industry specialist.

Determine Whether You Are Eligible

Review a Mock Application

Frequently Asked Questions

MDCP is designed for applicants such as non-profits, trade associations, etc. that represent an industry. It is not designed for individual companies.