U.S. Department of Commerce Invites AI Export Proposals Under New Program
Estimated reading time: 4–6 minutes
Date: 2026-04-10
The U.S. Department of Commerce, through the International Trade Administration (ITA), has announced a call for proposals under the American Artificial Intelligence (AI) Exports Program. This initiative, a result of Executive Order 14320, aims to promote the export of U.S. AI technology. It offers industry-led consortia the chance to showcase full-stack AI technology packages.
Key Dates and Submission Details
The proposal submission window is open from April 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026. All proposals should be submitted online through the American AI Exports Program portal at https://aiexports.gov/consortia/apply. The Department will review proposals on a rolling basis.
Program Overview
The American AI Exports Program seeks to support U.S. leadership in AI technology. It does this by facilitating the export of complete AI packages. These packages will include software, AI-optimized hardware, data pipelines, and cybersecurity measures.
The program encourages the formation of ‘pre-set’ consortia. These are groups of companies that collaborate to offer comprehensive AI solutions to foreign markets. Notably, these consortia don’t need to have a specific foreign buyer identified for their proposals.
Proposal Requirements
Eligible consortia must provide a full-stack AI package. This includes:
- AI-optimized hardware
- Data pipelines and systems
- AI models and systems
- Security measures for AI
- AI applications for various sectors
Each layer of the AI stack must have a major contributing member who provides significant value. The anchor member, or lead entity, must manage the proposal submission and must be headquartered in the U.S.
National Champion Enterprises
In exceptional cases, foreign companies might lead certain parts of the AI package. These cases will be considered if they advance U.S. national interests. Foreign firms, known as National Champion Enterprises (NCEs), can participate when designated by the Department.
Eligibility and Content Requirements
Proposals need to show significant U.S. content in their hardware and software. Companies from countries of concern, as defined by U.S. law, cannot be part of the consortia. A national interest focus is key to gaining program designation.
Benefits of Program Designation
Designated packages will gain U.S. government advocacy. This includes introductions to foreign buyers, priority in government events, and potential export licensing benefits. The program also aligns proposals with federal financing options.
Review Process
Proposals will undergo an initial review within 14 days, followed by a 60-day substantive review process. Decisions on the designation will consider compliance with program goals and potential national interest advancement.
Further Information
Public questions can be submitted starting April 1, 2026. Responses will be available at https://aiexports.gov/faq. The program will adhere to U.S. regulations, including export controls and antitrust laws.
For more information on submitting a proposal or on program regulations, visit the official portal.
Contact Details
For more inquiries, contact Brandon Remington, AI Exports Team, at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Phone: 202-839-0393, or email: [email protected]
Legal Disclaimer
This article includes content collected from the Federal Register (federalregister.gov). The content is not an official government publication. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For case-specific consultation, please contact us. Read our full Legal Disclaimer, which also includes information on translation accuracy.
