Ag Exporter of the Year application period now open

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Michigan Ag Exporter of the Year award. Each year, MDARD recognizes a food, agriculture, or forest product business that has demonstrated exceptional success in export growth.

Eligibility is open to Michigan food, agriculture, and forest products producers, manufacturers, or shippers that are actively pursuing international markets. Exported products must be over 50 percent grown, processed, or manufactured in Michigan. Companies of all sizes are encouraged to apply. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Monday, March 31.

“Michigan-made food, agriculture and forest products are making a global impact and represent one of the diverse ways our industry feeds the state’s economic prosperity,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “The international market opportunities in Michigan continue to grow, and we are proud to celebrate those who are having success in that area.”

The Michigan Ag Exporter of the Year was first awarded in 2006. For aditional information, visit the MDARD Ag Exporter of the Year webpage at www.michigan.gov/mdard/business-development/international-marketing/michigan-ag-exporter-of-the-year-award or contact Holly Gaffney at GaffneyH@michigan.gov.