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Food Export Midwest outlines how USDA funding and cost-share programs help Wisconsin food exporters
Summary
Food Export Midwest told the council it helps mostly small and medium food companies find and grow in international markets, citing USDA Market Access Program and regional funds, a cost-share program (up to $300,000 matched per eligible company annually), and examples such as Croix Valley Foods and Van Holten's.
Brendan, representing Food Export Midwest, told the council that the organization works with state departments of agriculture and in-market representatives to help small and medium food companies access export markets through education, market entry support and cost-share reimbursement.
"We are a pipeline organization. We help people learn how to export and become ready for it," Brendan said, describing Food Export Midwest's emphasis on value-added, consumer-oriented goods rather than primary commodities.
He explained that Food Export Midwest is funded through USDA programs, naming the Market Access Program and the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program, and described a cost-share model that can match company investments dollar-for-dollar up to $300,000 per eligible recipient per year in regionally administered funds. Brendan said the organization focuses on businesses with fewer than 500 employees and that roughly 87 small- and medium-sized Wisconsin companies participate annually.
Brendan highlighted company examples that used these services: Croix Valley Foods (trade missions and STEP grants) and Van Holten's (packaging updates and digital marketing supported by cost-share). He emphasized the importance of in‑market representatives who vet buyers, provide market research and troubleshoot export transactions.
Council members thanked Brendan and asked about recruitment and outreach; Brendan said state departments of agriculture lead on recruitment and Food Export Midwest works with dedicated outreach staff and in‑market liaisons. The presentation closed with staff encouragement that council members share program information with potential exporter companies.
The council scheduled follow-up materials to be circulated by DATCP staff.
