Local companies win state recognition

The Economic Development Council of Collier County announced the winners of the 2003 Excellence In Industry Awards at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples.

Industry Appreciation is a statewide event held each year to thank local industry for the opportunities and resources it provides in Florida. About 500 business leaders attended the luncheon.

In the employee benefits/civic responsibility category, the winners are: Southern Community Bank of Southwest Florida, small business; RWA Consulting, medium business; Gulf Coast American Blinds Corporation, large business.

For innovative achievement, winners are: Herbeau Creations of America, small business; Intech Printing and Direct Mail, medium business; Hospice of Naples, large business.

Small companies are one to 25 employees, medium companies are 26 to 75 employees and large companies are 76 or more employees.

The EDC also recognized Collier County companies for the Governor's Business Diversification Awards. The new statewide program spotlights Florida companies in emerging and high-technology industries for their contributions to Florida's economic growth.

The four nominees in the following award areas were: Gulfshore Technologies, entrepreneurship; Mentor Capital Partners, newcomer, Neighborhood America, innovation; and Contronex, export excellence.