By Andi Anderson
Freeland Bean and Grain Inc. has been recognized as Michigan's 2026 Agriculture Exporter of the Year by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). The award highlights the company's success in expanding international markets for Michigan-grown agricultural products and supporting economic growth within the state's farming sector.
The award was presented by Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) during a ceremony at the company's facility in Freeland, Michigan.
Director Boring praised the company's achievements, stating, "Freeland Bean and Grain Inc. is Michigan's Agriculture Exporter of the Year thanks to their team's commitment to opening new markets for Michigan producers, creating economic opportunities for Michigan farmers and helping strengthen communities across our state. MDARD takes pride in working with companies like Freeland Bean and Grain that show what's possible when Michigan agriculture reaches beyond our borders and brings the value of our products to markets around the world."
Founded in 1983, Freeland Bean and Grain is a family-owned agribusiness that buys and sells corn, soybeans, soft red wheat, and edible black beans. Over the years, the company has expanded its services and established itself as a full-service agricultural business serving farmers and customers throughout the region.
Roger Hupfer, Marketing Manager of Freeland Bean and Grain, highlighted the significance of the recognition, saying, "Winning this award has great significance for our team here at Freeland Bean and Grain because it recognizes the effort and time we ve devoted to building strong relationships with customers and growers, and to investing in new technologies and facilities. As a small company our strengths are extreme customer focus with our growers and our export partners. Being awarded Ag Exporter of the Year is the culmination of years spent executing our vision - providing high quality edible black beans, promoting our brands and growing our export business."
The company began exporting products internationally in 2005 and has steadily expanded its reach. Today, Freeland Bean and Grain exports Michigan-grown edible black beans to Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Peru. In 2025, exports of edible black beans represented approximately one-quarter of the company's total annual sales, with all exported beans grown in Michigan.
A key factor behind this growth has been the company's partnership with Jack's Bean International, which provides support in logistics, regulatory compliance, and overseas marketing. Freeland also strengthened its international presence by participating in the MDARD-supported Michigan delegation at the SIAL Paris international food exhibition.
The Agriculture Exporter of the Year Award recognizes companies that demonstrate outstanding export growth, innovation, and success in developing new international markets. Michigan remains one of the most agriculturally diverse states in the United States and is a leading producer of black beans and edible dry beans. Through its export achievements, Freeland Bean and Grain continues to showcase the quality of Michigan agriculture while creating valuable opportunities for farmers and rural communities.
Photo Credit: getty-images-elhenyo
Categories: Michigan, Business