On May 22, Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast hosted an informative webinar for U.S. wood product suppliers, introducing them to a growing number of opportunities for the wood industry within Food Export. These export assistance programs are designed to help wood companies grow their business and access international markets.
Many suppliers are surprised to find that wood-based products qualify for Food Export programs, but these programs provide resources that support market entry and expansion.
Eligible products include:
(Please reach out to a Food Export Liaison to determine if your product is eligible).
Food Export works directly with the wood industry and relevant organizations, such as state agricultural promotion agencies, state forestry product associations, and the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC). As the Food Export Wood Program continues to expand, strategic collaborations play a critical role in engaging wood-based suppliers who may not initially realize their eligibility for Food Export services. These partnerships also ensure that Food Export remains closely aligned with the evolving needs of the wood products industry.
No matter where you are on your export journey, Food Export’s diverse programs meet suppliers where they are at.
For new businesses entering export markets, Food Export’s Branded Program offers support like covering sample shipping, cost reimbursement for promotional activities, and support for international travel and/or attendance at domestic and foreign trade shows.
For businesses who are familiar with Food Export programs, there is still room for growth. Food Export provides support in reaching new market segments and covering marketing costs for building end-user awareness.
One of the most popular Food Export programs, the Branded Program, financially aides suppliers with 50% reimbursement for various marketing and promotional activities.
Eligible branded expenses include:
To apply to the Branded Program, suppliers must pre-qualify, develop a marketing plan and budget, and submit their application. Once contracted, suppliers will execute activities, submit reimbursement requests, and then receive reimbursement funds.
Sneak Peek Webinar for Trade Mission to Egypt for Value-Added Wood Products
Date: June 18th, 2025, at 10:00AM CT
Topics: Market Insights, Products in demand, Itinerary, and services offered.
Trade Mission to Egypt for Value-Added Wood Products
Dates: November 16-20, 2025
Early Registration Deadline: July 16, 2025
Buyers from Morocco will be invited for one-on-one meetings.
Food Export’s robust suite of educational offerings—including webinars, market entry handbooks, and online learning modules—provides wood product suppliers with essential knowledge to successfully navigate the complexities of international trade. These resources demystify key export processes, such as documentation, logistics, and labeling, while offering insights into market trends and buyer expectations specific to the wood industry. By tapping into this expertise, wood suppliers can better position themselves for global growth, identify the right overseas opportunities, and avoid costly missteps—whether they’re new to exporting or seeking to expand into additional markets.
Interested? Visit our Wood Products page to learn more!