ITA Helps Industry with Best Practices Guide
Thanks in part to funds provided through the Market Development Cooperator Program, Massachussetts-based International District Energy Association (IDEA) has made available to the U.S. district cooling industry a best practices guide. IDEA undertook the guide to give its member companies access to cutting-edge information to help international buyers see the usefulneess of district cooling. For example, one section of the book discusses integration of district cooling with other utilities infrastructure such as power plants, sewage treatment plants, and--especially important for custoners in the Middle East--desalination plants.

While perusing the newly published best practices guide, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Manufacturing and Services, Woody Sutton, discusses the competitiveness of the U.S. district cooling industry with IDEA president Rob Thornton.

Jan. 27 Conference Call for Potential Applicants
On January 27, from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, MDCP Manager Brad Hess will discuss the program and what it takes to win an MDCP award. Those interested in participating should dial 800-369-1929. The call leader is Latonya Milstead. The passcode is 50548.

2009 Competition
With the federal government operating under a continuing resolution, it is too early to announce a new competition. However, there is a good chance that our traditional $2 million-plus funding will available in 2009. If so, applications would be due probably in April. As more information becomes available, we will update the website.

Debriefing of Unsuccessful Applicants An Important Opportunity
Twenty-four (24) applications were submitted for the 2008 MDCP competition. We had sufficient funds for only four (4) awards. Many of the 20 unsuccessful applicants have already scheduled a debrief. All applicants that are considering applying again should schedule a debrief by contacting Brad Hess. A debrief is the best way to get a very specific assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of an MDCP proposal. Most organizations that receive MDCP awards are not successful the first time they apply. Getting a debriefing is the best way for an organization to improve its chances of future success.

New Awards to Be Announced Individually
Each of the four new MDCP award winners for 2008, or "cooperators," is setting up its own time and venue for announcing their award. As public announcements are made, we will post them on this website.

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. For more information about eligibility for financial assistance programs other than MDCP, visit the eligibility page of grants.gov.