Export Achievement Awards Nominations Now Open

Each year, the Governor recognizes Wisconsin firms and organizations that have achieved extraordinary results in international markets or have contributed to Wisconsin's ability to compete globally. Nominations for the 2009 awards can be submitted between now and April 11. This year's Export Achievement Awards will be presented on May 12, 2009 at the 45th annual Wisconsin International Trade Conference in Milwaukee.

Any Wisconsin agricultural, forestry, industrial, high-technology or service enterprise successfully engaging in or assisting in the export of Wisconsin-origin products or services can be nominated. Nominations will be evaluated for innovation, effectiveness, and special effort in growing exports, and enhancing employment, the economy, and the international prestige of Wisconsin. Nominations can be made by an employee of the firm or organization, or by a knowledgeable person from outside the organization.

Awards Categories include:

• Agricultural Exporter - food, farm, or forestry products
• Manufacturing Exporter - non-agricultural manufactured products
• Service Exporter - services provided to customers in other countries
• High Tech Exporter - scientific, medical, or other cutting edge products
• Export Assistance Provider - firms or organizations that do not have direct international sales, but provide assistance to Wisconsin exporters.

Nominees/Applicants will be evaluated in relation to other firms of similar size.

For entry information, go to: http://commerce.wi.gov/IE/IE-ExportAwards.html.

-- Stanley Pfrang