Indiana Small Businesses Invited to Meet Global Buyers at Summer in the Cities
The Indiana SBDC Agribusiness Initiative is excited to promote the Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission in Indianapolis. Our partners at the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) are collaborating with Food Export–Midwest, a nonprofit organization supported by the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, to host the event on August 12, 2026.
This event will help Hoosier food and beverage businesses connect with international buyers and expand into new global markets. Nearly 20 vetted international importers, distributors, and retailers from markets around the world are coming to Indianapolis, which is one of several stops on a multi-city tour.
What is a Buyers Mission?
A Buyers Mission is one of Food Export–Midwest’s most popular programs, offering U.S. suppliers the chance to meet directly with pre-qualified international buyers in a structured, efficient format.
Instead of navigating the complexities of overseas trade shows or cold outreach, participating companies are matched with buyers who are actively seeking U.S. products. Meetings are pre-scheduled and one-on-one, helping businesses make connections that can lead to export sales, long-term partnerships, and valuable market insights.
This model eliminates much of the guesswork associated with entering new markets and provides an accessible pathway for companies at every stage of export readiness — from first-time exporters to experienced global brands.
Why Indiana Companies Should Attend
The Summer in the Cities program has a proven track record. In 2025 alone, the event generated $9.72 million in sales, including 153 first-time exports to new markets. Even for companies that don’t secure immediate deals, the experience offers critical insight into how products perform in international markets.
Access to Global Buyers
Attendees will meet with nearly 20 international buyers representing a wide range of regions and market segments. These buyers are carefully vetted and come prepared to explore new U.S. products. Participating countries span major and emerging markets, reflecting growing global demand for U.S. consumer-ready food and agricultural products.
Expert Guidance Onsite
Food Export’s In-Market Representatives will be available for free, one-on-one consultations, providing real-time insights on pricing, packaging, logistics, and market entry strategies. This guidance can be especially valuable for companies new to exporting.
Networking Opportunities
In addition to formal buyer meetings, the event includes a networking lunch which gives attendees a chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and build relationships with other Indiana companies.
Who Should Participate?
The Buyers Mission is ideal for Indiana food and beverage companies across a wide range of categories, including:
- Snacks and confectionery
- Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Dairy and meat products
- Grains, pasta, and prepared foods
- Condiments, sauces, and spices
Whether you’re just beginning to explore exports or looking to expand into new markets, this program provides a valuable opportunity to test global demand and refine your strategy.
Event Details
Expanding Indiana’s Global Reach
ISDA’s partnership with Food Export–Midwest reflects a broader commitment to helping Indiana businesses grow through international trade. By connecting companies with buyers, resources, and market expertise, programs like the Buyers Mission create opportunities for Hoosier businesses to expand their reach and increase sales beyond U.S. borders.
As global demand for U.S. food and agricultural products continues to grow, the Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission offers an efficient and impactful way for Indiana companies to explore new markets, establish valuable relationships, and position themselves for long-term export success.
Businesses interested in strengthening their export readiness before the event can connect with the Indiana SBDC Agribusiness Initiative for confidential advising and support. The Agribusiness Initiative is made available in partnership with the Purdue Center for Regional Development (PCRD) and serves agribusiness clients through all 10 regional Indiana SBDC offices statewide.
About the Indiana SBDC Agribusiness Initiative
Launched in March 2022 as a partnership between the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC), the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), and Purdue University, the Indiana SBDC Agribusiness Initiative provides statewide specialty business advising to entrepreneurs and small businesses in Indiana’s agriculture and food sectors. Through confidential advising, training, market research, and access to a network of statewide resources, the initiative helps agribusinesses start, grow, finance, innovate, and transition their operations.
Designed to support traditional farmers, value-added producers, food processors, agritourism operators, and other agriculture-adjacent businesses, the Agribusiness Initiative serves as a gateway to business support services that are often overlooked in traditional entrepreneurial spaces. This initiative offers expertise in financing and capital access, USDA and SBA loan packaging, value-added product development, commodity exporting, financial planning, crop yield projections, and more.
To learn more about the Indiana SBDC Agribusiness Initiative and connect with an advisor, visit the program page or contact your local Indiana SBDC regional office.
Bob is a business advisor with the Indiana SBDC Agribusiness Initiative.... read more
