Dept. of Commerce: Applications For Export Achievement Awards Available

Contact:
Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661

MADISON-Wisconsin companies that have successfully undertaken exporting
initiatives will want to enter the annual Governor’s Export Achievement
Awards Competition. The awards will be presented at the 41st Annual
Wisconsin International Trade Conference, to be held May 17 in Milwaukee.

“Gov. Jim Doyle’s Grow Wisconsin initiative highlights the importance of
building Wisconsin’s economy by increasing our exports,” said Department of
Commerce (Commerce) Secretary Mary P. Burke. “The Governor looks froward to
recognizing Wisconsin companies and institutions that have responded
successfully to international market challenges through innovation and
leadership.”

Each year the Governor recognizes firms and organizations that have achieved
extraordinary results in international sales or have contributed to
Wisconsin’s increased ability to compete in a global market. Any
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.

The awards are presented in categories based upon size and industry and
include: Small and Large Agricultural Exporter – food, farm, or forestry
products; Small and Large Industrial Exporter – non-agricultural
manufactured products; Small and Large Service Exporter – services provided
to customers in other countries; and Small and Large High Tech Exporter –
scientific, medical, or other cutting edge products.

An Export Assistance Award is also presented to firms or organizations that
provide international business services to customers in Wisconsin. These can
include educational, financial, language, logistical, legal, or other
service providers that have helped Wisconsin exporters succeed.

The awards will be presented at the 41st Annual Wisconsin International
Trade Conference, Tuesday, May 17, 2005, in Milwaukee. Applications can be
obtained at or by
calling (608) 267-9227. The deadline for submitting nominations to the
Wisconsin Department of Commerce is Monday, April 18, 2005.