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 42nd Annual Wisconsin International Trade Conference, to be held May 9 in Milwaukee.

“Gov. Jim Doyle’s Grow Wisconsin Agenda 2005 highlights the importance of building Wisconsin’s economy by increasing our exports,” said Department of Commerce (Commerce) Secretary Mary P. Burke. “The Governor looks forward 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.

Applications can be obtained at www.commerce.state.wi.gov/ie/IE-ExportAwards.html or by calling Nikki Bulgrin, Commerce, at 608/267-0587. The deadline for submitting nominations to the Wisconsin Department of Commerce is April 7, 2006.