Nevada has been awarded a $300,000 federal grant to fund ongoing initiatives in China and Poland.
The state has received grants before, but this one is the largest to date. In fiscal year 2011, Nevada received $239,318, followed by $203,878 in fiscal year 2012.
According to the Governor's Office of Economic Development, the grant was awarded under the State Trade Export Promotion program administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Kris Sanchez, director of International Trade for GOED, told KNPR's State of Nevada, said the funds will make a difference in supporting the agency's work in China and Poland.
"We think they are (both) great markets for exports," Sanchez said. "And, there is a of need for products that are produced here."
Sanchez said there was high demand for gaming industry products in China, but he added that there is significant interest in Nevada's work in water technology and conservation.
Part of the federal grant will be awarded to enable companies to participate in the state-led trade mission to China in March and a planned trip in May to Poland. GOED said those companies would have to match the grant money, which would help offset travels costs of those trade missions.
Kris Sanchez, director of International Trade, Governor’s Office of Economic Development.