Marketplace Today Blog

By Rick Barrett
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Federal matching funds are available to help Wisconsin food companies promote their products in foreign markets, Gov. Jim Doyle said today.

Up to $300,000 is available per company for efforts to promote and market products overseas. The Branded Program reimburses participants for up to half of their international marketing and promotional expenses, including the cost of foreign trade shows, international travel, advertising, product demonstrations, point-of-sale materials, and package and label modifications to meet foreign import requirements.

Program participants must fit the U.S. Small Business Administration’s definition of a “small company” and be incorporated in the United States. In addition, at least half of their products must be made with domestic ingredients. Agriculture cooperatives and export agents that work on behalf of U.S. food companies also are eligible for assistance, provided they meet program requirements.

Wisconsin is the 16th-largest exporter of agricultural commodities in the United States. During the first six months of the year, agricultural exports from the state increased 13 percent to a record $975 million.