Tim Norwood of Florence has been honored as an Ambassador for Economic Development by the S.C. Department of Commerce and legislative leaders as part of South Carolina’s 20th Annual Industry Appreciation Week.

Norwood was among 47 people from 46 counties honored during a ceremony Tuesday  at the Statehouse for their efforts to bolster community and economic development activities in South Carolina.

“Serving as examples of economic success, our state’s existing businesses are one of our most valuable economic development tools,” state House Speaker Bobby Harrell said in a press release. “These private sector leaders are at the frontlines of job creation and industry promotion for South Carolina and they do more for our economy than government can ever contribute. Our Ambassadors for Economic Development serve as a true asset to our state and deserve real credit for their leadership.”

Norwood formed a tax consulting firm, which later became SMS. The company steadily grew and was purchased by ADP in 1993. He is vice president of sales. Norwood also owns Victor’s Bistro and is co-owner of Prime Time Sports Cafe.

Norwood serves as chairman of Florence County Progress, the private sector arm of the Florence County Economic Development Partnership. He recently served as the chairman of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, which named him Business Person of the Year in September.

“The health of our state’s economy hinges on the important contributions made by business leaders and entrepreneurs throughout South Carolina,” state Commerce Secretary Bobby Hitt said in the press release. “Whether it is bringing more capital investment and jobs to our state or supporting initiatives that bolster economic activities in communities, these ambassadors are committed to improving economic opportunities for all South Carolinians. We congratulate each Ambassador for Economic Development and thank them for their efforts.”

Each year, the state Department of Commerce joins local communities to thank businesses for their vital contributions to South Carolina’s economy. The Department of Commerce kicks off Industry Appreciation Week each year by recognizing people throughout South Carolina as Ambassadors for Economic Development. They include leaders from the private sector representing a variety of businesses and economic development organizations committed to securing new jobs and investment in their communities.

“Secretary Hitt and I have one very clear focus: to make our state the best and most competitive in the country for business development. ‘Can’t’ isn’t an option for us. But we can’t do it alone. We need partners across South Carolina to grow the businesses we have, recruit new ones and help put our people back to work, and that’s what today is all about,” Gov. Nikki Haley said in the release.