Some of Newfoundland and Labrador's top innovators and exporters recently took centre stage at the Provincial Government's annual Export and Innovation Awards.

Through the Export and Innovation Awards, the Provincial Government showcases prominent innovators and exporters and celebrates their accomplishments and successes. The event, which was attended by upwards of 200 individuals, captured the forward-looking nature of a business community whose vision is focused on exporting to international markets.

Ocean Choice International was named Exporter of the Year, while Grand Bank-based Dynamic Air Shelters and Memorial University's Distance Education and Learning Technologies were respectively presented with the Innovation in Business and Distinction in Innovation Awards.

These awards carry significant value for winners.

Camouflage Software, a previous winner, described the awards as "bolstering the company's courage and giving it the energy required to make repeated attempts, perform endless demonstrations, and to succeed in convincing clients of the value of its software."

While there were three winners named, many others were equally as deserving.

Small and medium-sized businesses and organizations are a focal point for the positive activity being experienced in the province and have been a force in the diversification of the province's business community.

As a government, we are a champion of business growth. A key conduit to encouraging business growth is supporting local businesses to become successful innovators and exporters.

In the coming months, the Provincial Government will be leveraging relationships through the province's trade alliance with the Southeastern United States. Through this relationship, we will work with our network of women-owned businesses to help them sell their products and services to larger corporations and public organizations which have implemented diversity policies.

The Provincial Government, in collaboration with local businesses and regional partners, is also in the early stages of exploring export opportunities in the vast markets of India, China, and Brazil. Given the size and interest in these markets, officials are carefully identifying parameters for market entry, key contacts, and partnership opportunities.

With a business community that is thinking global, the Provincial Government additionally intends to sit down with business representatives in the New Year to proactively discuss emerging opportunities and markets and how we can assist turning those opportunities into reality.

By facilitating new export activity, the Provincial Government is supporting the development of a vibrant business community and setting the stage for even greater celebrations at future Export and Innovation Awards.