“Hosting this program gave us the opportunity to spotlight the significant impact of exporters on our state’s economy,” Susan Widmer, Director at the U.S. Commercial Services in Northern New Jersey, said during her opening remarks at the event. “We are pleased to be the catalyst to start this important new tradition.”  

Based in Woodbridge, N.J., ISS has been nationally certified by the New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council as a Minority Business Enterprise or MBE, for short.  

“ISS takes immense pride in being recognized as the Minority Owned/Diverse Exporter of the Year as this prestigious accolade highlights the significance of diversity and inclusion in the realm of business and international trade,” said ISS CEO Aluisio Figueiredo. “As an MBE, ISS exemplifies the success that can be achieved through equal opportunities and representation. This recognition not only boosts the reputation of ISS, but it also opens doors to new partnerships, collaborations, and market opportunities. By championing diversity, ISS sets an example for other companies to embrace inclusivity, fostering innovation and economic growth.” 

ISS COO Daniel Marino was on hand at the event to accept the award and take part in a panel discussion alongside representatives from the other honorees, which included Gokhan Alkanat of Rowan University, Diana Levy of Undercover Snacks, and Bill Killeen of Acrow Bridge, to share insights on the current export environment and the challenges that companies will likely face moving forward.  

“Sharing our expertise on the innovation required to export and fill other market needs with fellow New Jersey-based business leaders was an enriching experience,” Marino explained. “As a minority business enterprise, we were honored to have the opportunity to discuss the lessons that we have learned through the years on embracing cultural differences and the various challenges that can come with that.”