Wisconsin Governor Announces Third Round of Export Expansion Grants to Boost Agricultural Exports

Strategic Insights -

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection have announced the third round of Export Expansion Grants, totaling $315,649, to support seven projects focused on expanding dairy, meat, and crop exports. These grants are funded through the Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports (WIAE), created by Governor Evers in 2021, aiming to boost the state's agricultural exports by 25 percent. Wisconsin is currently ranked 12th in the nation for agricultural exports by state, up from 13th in 2021, and is on track to become a top 10 state in the country for agricultural exports.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports (WIAE) has been instrumental in boosting Wisconsin's agricultural exports, with the state currently ranked 12th in the nation, up from 13th in 2021.
  • The WIAE has been funded through the bipartisan state budget signed by Governor Evers this month, ensuring continued support for Wisconsin's $116 billion agriculture industry.
  • The Export Expansion Grants total $315,649 and will be awarded to seven projects focused on expanding dairy, meat, and crop exports, with all projects to be completed by May 1, 2026.
  • Recipients must provide cash or in-kind matching funds equal to 20 percent of the grant award.
  • Governor Evers has long been a champion for Wisconsin's farm families, agricultural and farm industries, and rural communities, with the 2025-27 Biennial Budget providing ongoing funding for the WIAE program.
  • President Trump's trade wars and tariff taxes have created growing uncertainty for Wisconsin farmers and producers.

Statistics:

  • Wisconsin is currently ranked 12th in the nation for agricultural exports by state.
  • The state has achieved the highest agricultural exports on record under Governor Evers' administration.
  • Wisconsin's $116 billion agriculture industry is a critical contributor to the state's economy.
  • The Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports (WIAE) aims to boost the state's agricultural exports by 25 percent.
  • A total of $315,649 was awarded in the third round of Export Expansion Grants.
  • All projects must be completed by May 1, 2026.
  • Recipients must provide cash or in-kind matching funds equal to 20 percent of the grant award.

Sources:

  • Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP)
  • The State of Wisconsin, Office of the Governor (Tony Evers)