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USMEF Branded Products Program Has Assistance Available for Small Companies

Published: Apr 27, 2018

Small companies looking to promote branded products around the world are encouraged to apply for financial assistance from USMEF’s 2018 Branded Products Promotion Program.

Several opportunities to introduce and promote products are available this year, including participation in the SIAL Paris Food Exhibition, which takes place in October.

In the past, U.S. businesses have used the program to host training seminars for foreign clients, conduct retail promotions in promising global markets and take part in popular international food trade shows such as Foodex Japan and the ANUGA food show in Europe.

The purpose of these activities is simple: to promote products globally and increase business.

The Branded Products Program provides financial assistance to small (less than 500 employees), for-profit companies or U.S. agricultural cooperatives that own a commodity brand. Products promoted under the program must contain at least 50 percent U.S. red meat.

Program funds can be used to offset up to 50 percent of certain costs in support of export development activities in international markets in the following three areas:

  • Trade shows and fairs: international trade shows and select U.S. domestic trade shows with large international attendance;
  • Retail and foodservice promotions: including demonstrations, point of sale materials, signs and displays; and
  • Seminars: including materials, translation of company literature, interpreters, set-up costs, room rental and presentation production.

Companies that have utilized the program often point to the benefits of partnering with USMEF, an organization that has employees on the ground in dozens of foreign countries working to grow demand for U.S. red meat.

Small companies have used USMEF’s Branded Products Program to participate in major international food shows like Foodex Japan

“The support provided by USMEF is immeasurable – whether it be professional advice, networking or the financial support at food shows, it all lends to the real growth we have achieved,” explained a company representative who participated in Foodex Japan last year. “In the world of global food giants that I share space with at these shows and compete against on the streets of reality, it is only through the support of USMEF that a company of our nature can succeed and flourish in this extremely competitive environment.”

The 2018 Branded Products Promotion Program runs through Dec. 31. Applications can be submitted throughout the year and will be accepted based on program qualifications and available funds. Companies do not have to be USMEF members to participate.

Program information, including guidelines and the application form, can be found here. If you have questions or wish to submit an application, please email Ashley Rassi.