I use a Long Perng 80mm f6 achromat on an EQ2 as my "travel scope" setup. Something similar would easily fit into the budget. I think the LP scope i have has been discontinued, but a WO zenithstar, or perhaps the
vixen 80mm achromat on a light weight mount would suit?
This could be another option, although perhaps is a bit bigger than what your work colleague is after.