NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR 2008 GOVERNOR’S EXPORT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

MADISON–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. Nomination deadline is April 11, 2008. The 2008 awards will be presented on May 13, 2008 at the 44th annual Wisconsin International Trade Conference in Milwaukee.

“During Governor Jim Doyle’s tenure, Wisconsin’s exports have grown by 60 percent,” said Department of Commerce Secretary Jack L. Fischer, AIA.  “We look forward to recognizing the outstanding individual achievements of Wisconsin’s exporters.”

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:

³     Agricultural Exporter – food, farm, or forestry products

³     Manufacturing Exporter – non-agricultural manufactured products

³     Service Exporter – services provided to customers in other countries

³     High Tech Exporter – scientific, medical, or other cutting edge products

³     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, or contact Stanley Pfrang, Department of Commerce, 608/267-0739, stanley.pfrang@wisconsin.gov.