Photo: Andrew Eldridge, one of three winners of the Young Entrepreneur Award, with Gov. Henry McMaster and Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. More photos can be found at S.C. Commerce's flickr page.

As part of the 27th annual Industry Appreciation series, the S.C. Department of Commerce recognized its 2018 Industry Impact award recipients during an event on Thursday, April 26 at 701 Whaley Street in Columbia. Honoring businesses that have made significant contributions to their communities and state, the recipients were selected within a certain employment size and county development tier group.

"South Carolina has developed a reputation around the world as a place that's got it all, and that includes a workforce that can meet any challenge," said Gov. Henry McMaster. "These local business leaders from all across our state are what make South Carolina such a wonderful place to live, work, and play."

Each year, S.C. Commerce joins local communities to thank businesses for their vital contributions to South Carolina's economy with an Industry Appreciation event. Nominees for this year's Industry Impact awards were judged based on a number of factors, including capital investment, job creation, community engagement and environmental stewardship.

"Team South Carolina is composed of countless moving parts and players, and we're proud to recognize some of the companies that have made our state's economy an international powerhouse," said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. "These recipients represent the workforce that has made our ongoing success possible."

In addition to presenting the 2018 Industry Impact awards, the state recognized three businesses with a South Carolina Export Achievement award and one firm with a Recycling Industry Excellence award. Three students were also recognized as Young Entrepreneurs of the Year.