A Quarter Century of Expanding Global Opportunities for U.S. Food and Agriculture

In 2025, Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast proudly mark the 25th anniversary of their strategic alliance, a partnership that has strengthened global export opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural suppliers across 23 states. Since aligning operations in April 2000, these two nonprofit organizations have worked together to empower small- and medium-sized food and agricultural businesses in their regions, expanding market access and enhancing international trade opportunities. 

This milestone celebrates a shared vision of simplifying international success and enriching global exchange, while also reflecting on the tremendous growth and impact the partnership has had on U.S. agriculture over the past quarter-century. 

The collaboration between Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast was founded on a simple but powerful premise: by working together, the two organizations could offer more opportunities, improve efficiency, and create better outcomes for U.S. food and agricultural suppliers. 

Through this partnership, the two organizations have streamlined operations, enhanced educational and promotional programs, and leveraged resources to maximize export success. This collaboration has resulted in stronger market penetration, expanded supplier reach, and increased international buyer connections. 

“This alliance has allowed us to be more effective in delivering programs and services that directly support U.S. exporters,” Food Export CEO/Executive Director Brendan Wilson said. “Over the past 25 years, we have continually refined our approach, ensuring that businesses across our 23 states receive the highest level of support in reaching international markets.” 

At the heart of this 25-year partnership lies a shared mission, vision, and values that guide every initiative undertaken by Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast: 

Mission: To empower small- and medium-sized businesses in our regions to sell their food and agricultural products internationally. 

Vision: We envision a future where small- and medium-sized businesses in our regions thrive in the global marketplace. We lead this transformation by simplifying international success, enriching global exchange, and realizing resources for the growth and prosperity of our member states and U.S. agriculture. 

Core Values: Cultivating Global Relationships: We nurture lasting relationships across borders and work collaboratively to help our stakeholders succeed. Rooted in Trust: We support our stakeholders, acting as responsible stewards of our resources while maintaining transparency and integrity. Producing Results: We are committed to the long-term success of our stakeholders, using innovation and expertise to drive economic growth. 

Among the many accomplishments of this strategic alliance is the development of a cohesive senior leadership team across both organizations. This initiative has created clearer accountability, streamlined decision-making, and enhanced communication, ensuring that both Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast are well-positioned for scalability and growth in the coming years. 

“Our ability to adapt and evolve has been one of the greatest strengths of our partnership,” Food Export Chief Communications Officer/Food Export-Northeast Deputy Director Laura England said. “This strategic alignment has fostered an exceptional level of teamwork, and the collaboration between our staff and partners has allowed us to exceed expectations in export growth.” 

The impact of this strategic alliance is reflected in the tangible benefits delivered to U.S. food and agricultural exporters. Over the past year alone, Food Export has supported hundreds of businesses in their export efforts through: 

Educational programs that simplify the complexities of exporting, providing suppliers with the knowledge and tools needed for success. 

Market Entry programs that connect U.S. suppliers with importers, distributors, manufacturers, and retailers worldwide. 

Foreign Trade Missions and Buyers Missions that foster long-term relationships between suppliers and international markets. 

The alliance between Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast continues to provide critical resources and support for U.S. companies looking to expand internationally. By working together, these two organizations ensure that food and agricultural businesses—no matter their size—have access to the tools and expertise needed to compete in the global marketplace. 

Through export assistance, financial support programs, and personalized guidance, Food Export has helped thousands of businesses over the years navigate international trade regulations, identify new market opportunities, and increase their export sales. 

A key driver of the success of this strategic alliance has been its strong partnerships with state Departments of Agriculture and USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). These relationships have allowed Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast to secure vital resources and funding that further enhance U.S. agricultural exports. 

“The collaborative approach we have taken has strengthened not just our organizations, but also the businesses and communities we serve,” Food Export Chief Operations Officer/Food Export-Midwest Deputy Director Michelle Rogowski said. “Looking ahead, we will continue to build on our strong foundation and drive meaningful results for our stakeholders.” 

As Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast celebrate this 25-year milestone, the organizations remain focused on the future—on expanding international opportunities, enhancing educational programs, and driving greater results for U.S. exporters. 

The next phase of this alliance will prioritize innovation, digital transformation, and new market expansion, ensuring that U.S. food and agricultural businesses stay ahead in an ever-changing global landscape. 

 “With our continued commitment to our mission, vision, and values, we will keep empowering small- and medium-sized businesses, simplifying export success, and enriching global trade opportunities for decades to come,” Food Export Chief Program and Partnership Officer Teresa Miller said. 

For more information about Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast, visit www.foodexport.org.