Media Release – STEP Announces 2026 STEP Export Award Finalists and Special 30th Anniversary Recognition
Regina, Saskatchewan — July 30, 2026
Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership (STEP) is pleased to announce three finalists for the 2026 STEP Export Award, recognizing Saskatchewan companies that have demonstrated outstanding exporting success over the last two years.
The recipient of the 2026 STEP Export Award will be announced at the STEP Annual General Meeting & STEP Export Award Reception on October 1, 2026, at the Sheraton Cavalier Hotel in Saskatoon. STEP Members, partners, and media are welcome to attend.
Sponsored by Export Development Canada (EDC), the STEP Export Award celebrates Saskatchewan exporters whose innovation, growth, and global success contribute to the province’s economy and reputation around the world.
The 2026 finalists are:
- Duck Foot Parts (Saskatoon), manufacturer of award-winning patented paddle tines that help farmers reduce harvest losses and improve efficiency, with products now used in markets around the world.
- Hydraulitechs Solutions (Saskatoon), designer and manufacturer of specialized hydraulic repair and testing equipment serving hydraulic repair operations worldwide.
- XPT Grain (Regina), an agricultural exporter specializing in the sourcing, processing, and global distribution of seed, pulse, and specialty crops for international markets.
Saskatchewan’s ability to adapt to a rapidly changing global trade environment over the past several years continues to demonstrate the innovation, resilience, and determination of the province’s businesses and people. The 2026 finalists exemplify those strengths through their commitment to growing beyond Canada’s borders and building new opportunities in global markets.
“The success of Saskatchewan exporters is built on innovation, perseverance, and a willingness to compete on the world stage,” said Chris Lane, President and CEO of STEP. “Duck Foot Parts, Hydraulitechs Solutions, and XPT Grain have each demonstrated exceptional leadership in growing international business and expanding Saskatchewan’s global reach. Their success helps create jobs, strengthen our economy, and enhance Saskatchewan’s reputation as a trusted supplier of world-class products and services.”
AGT Food & Ingredients to Receive Special 30th Anniversary Recognition
As part of STEP’s 30th Anniversary celebrations, the organization will also present the STEP Distinguished Exporter Award to AGT Food & Ingredients of Regina.
“As we celebrate 30 years of supporting Saskatchewan exporters, AGT Food & Ingredients stands out as a remarkable example of what Saskatchewan companies can achieve through a long-term commitment to global growth,” said Lane. “Their success story reflects the ambition, innovation, and international vision that have helped shape Saskatchewan’s export economy.”
A long-time STEP member, AGT has spent more than 25 years building one of Saskatchewan’s most recognized global agribusiness success stories. Through its continued growth in international markets, AGT has demonstrated the transformative impact exporting can have on a Saskatchewan company, while creating significant economic benefits for the province.
The STEP Distinguished Exporter Award will recognize AGT’s sustained commitment to international trade, global market development, and value-added processing, as well as its contribution to Saskatchewan’s reputation as a leading supplier of food ingredients and agricultural products.
The Excellence in Exporting Growth Award will be presented alongside the 2026 STEP Export Award during the October 1 reception.
“The STEP Export Awards recognize businesses that are making their mark around the world and helping drive growth here at home,” said Warren Kaeding, Minister of Trade and Export Development. “The success of this year’s finalists underscores the province’s leadership on a global stage. I am especially pleased to congratulate AGT Food & Ingredients on their recognition, whose work champions our value-added agriculture industry, creates markets for farmers and expands exports, which in turn helps protect Saskatchewan’s economy, communities and people.”
RSVP to the 2026 STEP AGM, Export Award Reception, and 30th Anniversary Celebration here.
Celebrating 30 Years of Saskatchewan Export Success
Founded in 1996, STEP marks 30 years of supporting Saskatchewan companies as they compete and thrive in global markets. Today, the organization represents 415 exporters and associates, backed by a robust network of partners and international business connections.
In that time, STEP has assisted 900+ Saskatchewan companies in expanding into new markets, developing export capacity, and creating economic growth throughout the province.
The Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership (STEP) is a member‑driven, non‐profit corporation dedicated to increasing Saskatchewan’s export activity and helping companies diversify their customer base outside of Saskatchewan. For more information, visit Sasktrade.com.
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For further information, please contact:
Katya Tomlinson, Communications Specialist
Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP)
Telephone: 306-526-7287
Email
