A French manufacturer of starting and timing systems for bicycle motocross plans to open its first United States office in Grand Junction.

The Grand Junction Economic Partnership, which assisted with the move, announced the opening of the Prostart office and warehouse on 25 Road.

Owner Quentin Grun said he learned about Grand Junction when he sold a timing system to the cycling team at Colorado Mesa University four years ago and developed a relationship with Brian Flaherty, team director. Grun said he also knows several BMX riders who live in the area.

Grun said he initially considered Canada for his North American operations. But with 80 percent of sales on the continent in the United States, he said he realized it would be easier to operate in the U.S. He considered Denver, Montrose and Salt Lake City before deciding on Grand Junction.

Grun said he enjoyed working with GJEP. “I know I can ask anything. It is very transparent and you are just here to help.”

Grun plans to officially relocate to Grand Junction next year pending approval of an E2 visa, which he expects in December. An E2 visa enables people to come to the U.S. to set up a business, practice or office.

He said the company has invested at least $100,000 in its operations in the Grand Valley, which was required to apply for the visa.

He expects to hire one employee in the Grand Junction office early next year.

Prostart will continue operations in France to serve European and international clients. The company will serve the U.S., Canada and Mexico from its Grand Junction office, Grun said. Prostart serves clients in 20 states, he said.