Freeland Bean and Grain Wins Michigan's Top Agriculture Exporter Award
Freeland Bean and Grain Inc., a family-run business based in Michigan, was awarded the title of Agriculture Exporter of the Year for 2026. The award was presented by Director Tim Boring of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) at a ceremony held on August 12.
The company has been exporting Michigan-grown edible black beans to countries such as Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Peru since 2005. In 2025, exports of edible black beans accounted for a quarter of the company's total annual sales.
Freeland Bean and Grain has built strong partnerships with companies like Jack's Bean International to provide logistical, regulatory, and overseas marketing support. The company also sponsored a booth at the SIAL Paris international food exhibition in 2024 as part of the MDARD-supported Michigan delegation.