BOULDER – Today, on World Trade Day, Gov. Jared Polis, Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced Watchmaker Genomics, a biotechnology company developing advanced tools for genomic analysis, as the 2026 recipient of the Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting.

"Colorado is a leader in innovation and we are building a strong workforce and growing our economy. Watchmaker Genomics represents the best of Colorado innovation and is at the forefront of advanced technology, driving global advances in science and while creating jobs contributing to our thriving Colorado economy through business growth and job creation," said Governor Polis.

"Colorado is proud to be home of Watchmaker Genomics. Their economic impact is felt within our state and internationally. Most importantly, the company's work is contributing to scientific progress that has the potential to improve health on a global scale. It was my honor to recognize a company that reflects the very best of Colorado," said Lt. Governor Dianne Primarvera.

Based in Boulder, Colorado, Watchmaker Genomics develops advanced solutions for DNA and RNA sequencing by combining enzyme engineering with integrated workflow design. Its technologies span library preparation, amplification, and epigenomic analysis, helping researchers generate higher-quality genomic data with greater efficiency and consistency. Fueled by strong global demand for improved sequencing performance, Watchmaker Genomics has expanded its international presence to support researchers worldwide.

"As demand for high-performance sequencing technologies continues to grow globally, we're proud to develop and manufacture these products in Colorado," said Trey Foskett, CEO of Watchmaker Genomics. "This award recognizes not only our international growth, but also the incredible team driving innovation and manufacturing here in Boulder."

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By exporting products internationally, companies like Watchmaker Genomics bring new revenue into Colorado, fuel growth and job creation, and foster reinvestment in local operations. In support of Watchmaker Genomics' expansion, OEDIT awarded the company an Advanced Industries Early Stage and Capital Retention Grant to develop novel protein engineering and manufacturing platforms. Additionally, the company received a State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant in 2025 to attend and exhibit at the European Human Genetics Conference, a premier annual event in Europe for professionals in the field of human genetics to build brand awareness and establish connections with new international customers. Through these opportunities, the company has established new business relationships, expanded its distribution network, and increased awareness of its groundbreaking technology among international providers.

"Colorado companies are advancing new technologies sought around the globe. By supporting their efforts to export internationally, we enhance Colorado's reputation for innovation and demand for products produced in our state. We are thrilled to recognize Watchmaker Genomics' growth and contribution to Colorado's economy," said Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director.

Trade supports over 820,000 jobs in the state, making international sales vital to Colorado's strong economy. In 2025, Colorado exported a record $11 billion of goods to the world. Recognizing small businesses with this award highlights opportunities for Colorado to expand its exporting capabilities and grow the state's economy. In 2023, 5,563 companies exported from Colorado locations and of those, 87% were small and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 500 employees. Small and medium-sized firms also generated 27.2% of Colorado's total exports of goods the same year.

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The Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting recognizes companies that have exported products or services outside of Colorado for two or more years, are new to international exporting, or expanding into a new market and are headquartered in or have at least 50 percent of their employees based in Colorado. Since 1970, 133 companies have won the award.

About OEDIT's Global Business Development Division

Global Business Development (GBD) is a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. GBD supports Colorado businesses and communities by using a data-driven approach to recruit, support, and retain businesses that contribute to a robust and diversified economy. We align our portfolio of programs, services, and incentives with industries that benefit Colorado companies and elevate the state's national and international competitiveness. GBD also hosts foreign delegations and participates in trade and investment missions around the world to strengthen global awareness of Colorado. With a highly educated and motivated workforce, a thriving innovation economy, and nation-leading entrepreneurial spirit, Colorado is a top market for business development.

About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado's economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.

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