JOHNSON ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF EXCELLENCE IN EXPORTING AWARD APPLICATIONS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2005

Columbus, OH -- Lieutenant Governor Bruce Johnson today announced the Ohio Department of Development’s International Trade Division is currently accepting nominations for the 2005 Governor’s Excellence in Exporting Awards (“E” Awards).

“Ohio companies exported more than $31.2 billion in goods in 2004, creating profitable lines of business around the world and contributing to Ohio’s long-term prosperity,” said Johnson, who also serves as director of the Ohio Department of Development. “The Governor’s ‘E’ Awards provide the State with the opportunity to recognize these significant contributions to Ohio’s economy, so I encourage all Ohio firms that have increased their competitiveness through exporting efforts to apply for a 2005 award.”

Each year, “E” Awards are given to companies and organizations of all sizes that have shown a strong commitment to increasing exports of Ohio goods or a heightened awareness of exporting as a vital component of the state’s economy. Since 1991, more than 300 companies have received the award. In addition, the Governor annually presents the “Exporter of the Year” award to one Ohio company that exemplifies the state’s commitment to international trade. The Will-Burt Company Mast Division, a world-leading manufacturer and exporter of pneumatic and mechanical telescoping masts, light towers and accessories, received the 2004 Exporter of the Year Award.

A selection committee will review all completed applications. Nominees should outline how they have: demonstrated aggressive international marketing of products, including research activities; developed a network of distributors, international offices or subsidiaries; developed and marketed a new export product; achieved a breakthrough in a closed market; overcome unique exporting obstacles; and/or developed a training program for overseas employees.

Nominees should also indicate how they have: participated in trade shows; traveled to target markets to conduct research and meet representatives or agents; developed foreign language promotional materials and general promotional activities; participated in volunteer programs, mentor programs, seminars and training for new-to-export companies; encouraged other Ohio companies to become involved in exporting; and/or educated employees about the importance of international trade to their jobs and the company’s overall success.

“E” Award applications can be accessed via the Internet at www.odod.state.ohu.us/itd or can be obtained by calling the Ohio Department of Development’s International Trade Division at (800) 848-1300, ext. 6-5017 or (614) 466-5017. The application deadline is March 11, 2005. Governor Bob Taft will host a Statehouse luncheon to announce the 2005 “E” Award winners on June 28, 2005.