2026 Annual International Trade & Investment Award Winners

Announced by MITC

Maine International Trade Center (MITC) announced today the winners of the 2026 International Trade and Investment Awards.

Last year, Maine companies exported $3.2 billion in goods. Top international markets for Maine exports are Canada, the European Union, and China. International trade supports 1 in 5 (170,300) Maine jobs, and 84% of Maine exporters are small and medium-sized businesses.

“Our 2026 award winners are an extraordinary group of organizations and individuals who represent the best of Maine through global partnerships, innovation leadership, and workforce development,” said Wade Merritt, MITC President and State Director of International Trade. “We’re privileged to share their stories and celebrate their successes at Trade Day 2026.”

Exporter of the Year: Ocean’s Balance (Biddeford, ME)
The Exporter of the Year Award is presented to a manufacturer that has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to international trade through increased exports.

Ocean’s Balance is a leading seaweed ingredient producer that is working to make the oceans a more significant part of global food production. Founded in 2016, the company has seen continuous growth as the demand for seaweed has increased, with a global market currently valued at just under $20 billion. Ocean’s Balance produces retail products like seaweed seasonings and powders for smoothies and supplies seaweed ingredients to manufacturers across food, pet products, and dietary supplements. Currently, 35% of the company’s business is international, and that number continues to expand. Some of its top export markets include China, Mexico, Canada and the UK. CEO Mitchell Lench has emerged as a leading voice in Maine’s seaweed industry, bringing together stakeholders to ensure Maine maintains its position as the nation’s top seaweed producer. The company manufactures seaweed products for approximately 12 consumer brands using their state-of-the-art kelp dehydrator and other processing equipment that supports both internal production and contract manufacturing.