The State of Michigan today kicked off the search for the "Michigan Agriculture Exporter of the Year" from within the state's growing agriculture export industry.  Applications will be accepted until March 26, 2010, with the top exporter receiving recognition at an event to be announced at a later date. 

"Our agricultural exporters are helping Michigan compete in a global marketplace by showcasing our high quality products, while expanding the state's trade markets," said Don Koivisto, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) director. "In 2008, Michigan agricultural exports were $1.68 billion and employed over 19,600 residents."

To be eligible, a company's products must be over 50 percent grown, processed or manufactured in Michigan.  Companies with headquarters in other states, but production facilities in Michigan, are invited to apply on the basis of their Michigan-made exports. Past recipients of the "Michigan Agriculture Exporter of the Year" are eligible to apply five years after their initial award if they have increased their exports or expanded into new markets. 

The "Michigan Agriculture Exporter of the Year" application requests background information on the company and its products, the percentage growth of company exports, and the company's export destinations.  Nominations are due to MDA's International Marketing Program by March 26, 2010.  Self-nominations by companies are encouraged.  A panel of various representatives will review applications and present recommendations to the MDA director for a final decision.

Last year, the Michigan Agriculture Exporter of the Year honor went to Walters Gardens Inc. of Zeeland because of their ability to deliver quality products to Canada and for continuing to grow their business in that market. Previous winners include: Honee Bear Canning, Lawton; Cooperative Elevator Company, Pigeon; Cherry Central, Traverse City; Michigan Apple Committee, DeWitt; and Graceland Fruit Inc., Frankfort.

For more information, please contact Jamie Zmitko-Somers, International Marketing Program Manager, at (517) 241-3628, zmitkoj@michigan.govor click here to get a copy of the application.
  
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