Apply for MDARD’s Agriculture Exporter of the Year Award

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is now accepting applications for its 2017 “Ag Exporter of the Year” award. Each year, MDARD recognizes an outstanding Michigan food and agriculture company for its efforts to increase exports of Michigan food and agriculture products. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Friday, March 17.

In addition to receiving public recognition around the state, awardees also enjoy a level of regard and trust among international buyers, according to an MDARD press release. Companies of all sizes are encouraged to apply. Eligibility is limited to Michigan food and agriculture producers, manufacturers, or shippers of good reputation and good standing in the business community that are aggressively pursuing international markets and increasing export sales. Products must be at least 50 percent grown, processed, or manufactured in Michigan.

The winner of the “Michigan Ag Exporter of the Year” award is selected by export industry representatives based on export growth, innovation, and the pursuit of new export markets.

The 2016 Michigan Agriculture Exporter of the Year honor went to Bayside Best Beans of Sebewaing, Michigan. Bayside Best Beans achieved an impressive growth in export sales from 2013 to 2014, with more than 50 percent of their sales coming from exports. Previous winners include Star of the West Milling, Continental Dairy, Connor Sports, Graceland Fruit, Cherry Central, Zeeland Farm Service, Walters Gardens, Honee Bear Canning, and Cooperative Elevator Company.

For more information or to apply, visit https://goo.gl/zucwd8 or contact Jamie Zmitko-Somers at 517-284-5738.