Columbia, South Carolina – As a part of annual Industry Appreciation Week, the South Carolina Department of Commerce announced the 2015 Ambassadors for Economic Development. Recognized for their exceptional efforts to bolster community and economic development activities in South Carolina, the ambassadors were honored in a ceremony held on Thursday, April 2 at the Governor’s Mansion Complex. This year, 48 individuals from 46 counties were selected.

“We’re honored to spotlight these 48 individuals for their contributions to our state. South Carolina’s people are what truly make our state one of the best places in the world to do business, and events like yesterday’s ceremony give us the opportunity to recognize just some of the people that help make South Carolina so special,” said. Gov. Nikki Haley.

Each year the Department of Commerce joins local communities to thank businesses for their vital contributions to South Carolina’s economy during the state’s Industry Appreciation Week. As part of the celebration, the state recognizes individuals throughout South Carolina as Ambassadors for Economic Development. These individuals include local leaders from the private sector, representing a variety of businesses committed to advancing their communities.

“The success that we’re having in economic development in South Carolina can largely be attributed to our team-first approach. These ambassadors truly reflect the enthusiasm and commitment that makes Team South Carolina so successful, and we’re thrilled to recognize them for all they’ve done to advance their respective companies and communities,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

“It is an honor and privilege to be the recipient of the Ambassador award. Our manufacturing company moved to Rock Hill from Charlotte five years ago, a decision that has exceeded our expectations. At the time we employed 20 people, today we have more than doubled our business and are on our way to tripling our employees. We have found that York County and the state of South Carolina partner well. They are very receptive towards the business community. They also have a keen understanding of the value industry contributes to our economic growth as well as the need to continue to create an environment that encourages companies to remain or move to our state,” shared Doug Meyer-Cuno, President of Carolina Ingredients. 

In addition to honoring the 2015 Ambassadors for Economic Development at last night’s ceremony, the state also recognized five students as Young Entrepreneurs of the Year. The students, which consisted of one 2nd grader and four 11th and 12th graders, were acknowledged for their unique entrepreneurial ventures. Among their ventures were a graphics design operation, baked goods business, art gallery and museum, hair accessory venture and agribusiness company.