Michigan agriculture department to honor exporters

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is accepting applications for the 2024 Michigan Ag Exporter of the Year award.

The Lansing, Michigan, MDARD annually recognizes a food, agriculture, or forestry exporting business that demonstrates success in export growth.

Eligibility is limited to Michigan agriculture, food, and forest products producers, manufacturers, or shippers that are actively pursuing international markets. Products must be more than 50% grown, processed, or manufactured in Michigan. Companies of all sizes are encouraged to apply. Applications are due March 29.

“Michigan has become a destination for the food and agriculture sector because of expanding market opportunities and economic investments. When businesses are thriving in Michigan, we want to uplift their success,” Tim Boring, MDARD director, said in a news release.

“The Michigan Ag Exporter of the Year Award recognizes a company reaching outstanding achievements through exporting. MDARD is proud to work with companies to grow our global footprint, and I would encourage companies from across the state to apply!”

The first Michigan Ag Exporter of the Year was presented in 2006 and a company has been given the award each year since. The award was presented to Zeeland Farm Service in 2023.

Other previous winners include Michigan Apple, Graceland Fruit, Cherry Central, Bayside Best Beans,  Sklarczyk Seed Farm, Zeeland Farm Service, Dr. John’s Candies, Star of the West Milling, Continental Dairy, Connor Sports, Walters Gardens, Honee Bear Canning, Cooperative Elevator Company and Kamps Hardwoods.

For more information and an application, visit MDARD – Michigan Ag Exporter of the Year Award.