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Seven North Carolina companies – making everything from aircraft wings to whipped cream – were recognized today for growing sales in international markets during the 2025 Governor’s Export Awards.
Through this program, the Governor’s Office has partnered with the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) for the past nine years to honor North Carolina companies for expanding into international markets.
“North Carolina businesses large and small – including those being recognized today – represent our state in global markets every day,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Last year, North Carolina companies exported more than $43 billion in goods and services. I’m confident that number will continue to grow as we help more companies expand their reach around the world.”
The winners of the 2025 Governor’s Export Awards are:
- Governor’s Award for Excellence: MSI Defense
- Small Business Export Award: Core Technology Molding Corporation
- New-to-Export Award: VIGILINT
- Top Global Reach Exporter Award: MethodSense
- Large Business Export Award: Alamance Foods
- Sharyn Koenig Export Partner Award: NC World Trade Association
- Rural Business Export Award: StayOnline
Through its International Trade team, EDPNC supports businesses statewide to navigate trade agreements, language barriers, and address other challenges in expanding exports. During the past year, EDPNC’s trade managers have also fielded calls about the impact tariffs would have on North Carolina businesses.
“Last year, our International Trade team supported 418 businesses, with nearly half of them located in Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties,” said Michael Hubbard, director of International Trade for the EDPNC. “Companies across North Carolina, most notably the award winners honored today, navigated an uncertain trade environment and represented the best of what North Carolina has to offer.”
North Carolina companies interested in learning more about EDPNC’s international trade support resources and events can find more information and contact the International Trade Division here: https://edpnc.com/get-export-assistance/start-exporting/.
Below is more information on each of the award winners:
Governor’s Award for Excellence: MSI Defense
The Governor’s Award for Excellence is given each year to recognize one North Carolina company that has made significant contributions in the effort to increase North Carolina exports. MSI Defense, based in Mooresville, is a defense technology and systems integration company specializing in tactical ground platforms, counter-UAS solutions, and expeditionary air defense systems. MSI designs, tests, and manufactures advanced mobility and weapons integration platforms that support U.S. and allied forces worldwide.
Small Business Export Award: Core Technology Molding Corporation
Core Technology Molding Corporation, based in Greensboro, is a plastic injection molding company which produces highly engineered plastic products that have tight tolerances, require sophisticated tool designs, and mandate efficient manufacturing.
New-to-Export Award: VIGILINT
VIGILINT, based in Morrisville, is a global telemedicine, medical advisory, logistics and professional staffing company. The company offers full-spectrum telemedicine, medical advisory, crisis management, and expeditionary solutions for global travelers, multinational corporations, and government clients.
Top Global Reach Exporter Award: MethodSense
MethodSense, based in Morrisville, is a leading life science consulting firm, providing services and solutions in regulatory strategy, quality assurance, technology and operations.
Large Business Export Award: Alamance Foods
Alamance Foods, based in Burlington, is a food production company specializing in a range of products including cold foam, whipped cream, freezer pops, and more.
Sharyn Koenig Export Partner Award: NC World Trade Association
The NC World Trade Association, based in Lillington, promotes international business between North Carolina and the world by providing networking, education, resources, and advocacy for North Carolinians engaged in global business.
Rural Business Export Award: StayOnline
StayOnline, based in Henderson, is a global supplier and manufacturer of data center power cords and connectivity solutions, with the largest inventory of power cords and plug adapters in the industry.