COLUMBIA — A local businessman was honored Tuesday by Gov. Nikki Haley and other state leaders for his role in bringing new industry and jobs to Union County.

Scott Fant was honored Tuesday as an Ambassador for Economic Development by the Department of Commerce and legislative leaders as part of South Carolina’s 20th Annual Industry Appreciation Week.  The ceremony took place in Columbia at the Statehouse and highlighted 47 individuals from 46 counties for their exceptional efforts to bolster community and economic development activities in South Carolina.

 “Secretary Hitt and I have one very clear focus – to make our state the best and most competitive in the country for business development,' Gov. Haley said. ‘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,."

A native of Union County, Fant was instrumental in convincing the leadership at Sloan Construction that Union County was the best place to locate their liquid asphalt storage operations even though another site was being strongly considered. The project was announced in 2008 with $15 million in capital investment and 15 jobs over a five-year period.

“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.  “These private sector leaders are at the front lines 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.”

 “The health of our state’s economy hinges on the important contributions made by business leaders and entrepreneurs throughout South Carolina," Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt said. "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 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 individuals throughout South Carolina as Ambassadors for Economic Development.  These individuals include local leaders from the private sector representing a variety of businesses and economic development organizations committed to securing new jobs and investment in their communities.