TOPEKA–The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2012 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award, which is presented to a single Kansas business for excellence in international trade and marketing.

 Nominated companies will be evaluated on the totality of their international efforts, specifically:

·         increase in jobs because of international activities.

·         innovations in global marketing.

·         number of countries exported to.

·         effective use of international distributors.

·         long-range international strategies and prospects for future growth.

·         commitment to the state and local community.

The winner will be announced in the summer 2012. 

Kansas Commerce Secretary Pat George says competition for this recognition has significantly increased over the years, which is the direct result of more Kansas companies having success in international trade.

Businesses can nominate themselves or be nominated by any other organization or individual. Forms are available at www.kansascommerce.com/exporteroftheyear.

The nomination deadline is Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2012.