MADISON, WI. OCT. 21, 2025 – Gov. Tony Evers today announced The DeLong Co., Inc. of Clinton, Mercury Marine of Fond du Lac, and Hydro-Thermal Corporation of Waukesha as the winners of the 2025 Governor’s Export Achievement Awards. These awards recognize Wisconsin businesses and organizations for their success in growing exports and advancing the state’s reputation in international markets.
The awards were presented by Sam Rikkers, Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), at the awards ceremony in Madison.
“Wisconsin’s reputation as a center of global excellence in areas ranging from manufacturing to agriculture to technology depends on innovative businesses like these,” said Rikkers. “Through their dedication to global markets, they are showcasing the expertise, resilience, and quality that our state offers the world.”
The DeLong Co., Inc.
A sixth-generation, family-owned agricultural enterprise headquartered in Clinton, Wisconsin, The DeLong Co., Inc. has evolved into a leading provider of grain, seed, and agronomy services, serving both domestic and international markets with distinction. The company is the top containerized agricultural exporter in the United States—a testament to its innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence.
In 2023, DeLong reached a new milestone with the launch of the Agricultural Maritime Export Facility in Milwaukee—the first of its kind on the Great Lakes. This cutting-edge facility can load full vessels of feedstuffs at a rate of up to 10,000 metric tons per day, dramatically expanding global trade opportunities for Wisconsin agriculture.
DeLong’s bulk export reach spans Europe, North Africa, and the Mediterranean, with container export destinations reaching Asia and the Middle East. Shipments include soybeans, corn, wheat, and other essential agricultural commodities.
Beyond its commercial achievements, DeLong is a leader in sustainability. Through its Grown Climate Smart Program, the company empowers farmers to adopt environmentally responsible practices such as reduced tillage and cover cropping—advancing a more sustainable future for agriculture and the planet.
The DeLong Co. has also made strategic use of WEDC’s International Market Access Grant (IMAG) program, leveraging state resources to drive forward a variety of impactful projects across Wisconsin.
“Any recognition we receive starts with our people. I’m proud of the hardworking, talented team we have here; across every site and role. Their dedication, problem-solving, and day-in, day-out consistency are what make success possible,” said Chris DeLong, president of The DeLong Co.
View The DeLong Co. Export Achievement award video here.
View the official WEDC announcement and list of winners here.
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