New program year introduces a more connected approach to helping U.S. food companies succeed in international markets.
Chicago, IL | Philadelphia, PA (August 3, 2026) Food Export USA announces the launch of its 2027 Program Year, inviting food and agricultural companies across the Northeast and Midwest to explore new international opportunities through education, market development, buyer connections, funding, and personalized export support.
Built around the theme Homegrown and Succeeding Abroad, the 2027 Program Year introduces a more connected approach to export development. Rather than promoting individual programs independently, Food Export is creating a more intentional supplier experience that helps companies understand how education, market intelligence, funding opportunities, trade activities, and peer success stories work together to support long-term international growth.
"Every great export story starts at home,” said Brendan Wilson, CEO of Food Export USA. "Whether a company is taking its first step into international markets or building on years of export success, our role is to provide the knowledge, connections, and resources that help turn opportunity into growth."
Each year, Food Export partners with hundreds of small and medium-sized food and agricultural companies across its 23 member states, helping them build export readiness, identify promising international markets, access financial assistance, and develop lasting global business opportunities through education, market development programs, trade missions, buyer missions, and one-on-one guidance from experienced export professionals.
“Exporting isn’t one decision; it’s a journey,” said Trish James, Chief Growth Officer. “Some companies are just beginning to ask whether international markets are right for them. Others are preparing for their next buyer meeting or entering a new country after years of success. Our role is to meet suppliers where they are, provide the right resources at the right time, and help them continue moving forward with confidence.”
Throughout the 2027 Program Year, Food Export will also place greater emphasis on sharing supplier success stories. By highlighting companies that have expanded internationally through persistence, innovation, and partnership, Food Export aims to demonstrate what is possible and inspire more U.S. businesses to consider their own path to exporting.
The 2027 Program Year offers companies opportunities to learn, connect, and grow through Food Export’s integrated portfolio of services. Suppliers can explore potential markets, build export readiness, connect with qualified international buyers, access financial assistance, and identify the next opportunity for their business.
“Our supplier partners are already creating exceptional products here at home,” Wilson added. “Our job is to help them succeed abroad.”
The 2027 Program Year is now underway, with registration open for educational programs, international trade opportunities, and export assistance offered throughout the year.
About Food Export USA
Driven by a mission to help U.S. food and agricultural companies compete and succeed globally, Food Export Association of the Midwest USA (Food Export–Midwest) and Food Export USA–Northeast (Food Export–Northeast) are nonprofit organizations that support U.S. exporters in starting and expanding international sales. In partnership with the agricultural promotion agencies of 23 member states, Food Export delivers exporter education, market entry support, and targeted promotion to connect U.S. suppliers with qualified international buyers and grow demand for U.S.-grown and U.S.-made food, agricultural, and seafood products. The organizations are funded through the Market Access Program, administered by the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service.
To partner with us or learn more, visit foodexport.org or email [email protected].
Contact:
Trish James
Chief Growth Officer
[email protected]
215-599-9743