Dozens of businesses from throughout Central Florida waited in eager anticipation for their name to be called a winner during our company, Bright House Networks Regional Business Awards for Central Florida.

We were there as Governor Rick Scott and local leaders took the stage to congratulate businesses throughout the area.

Hundreds of people, all representing different companies throughout Central Florida, waited for their names to be called.

Moments after the First Response Disaster Team took the stage in acceptance of their award, we spoke with them about what this will mean for them.

"We are just totally estatic!" CEO Ken Poulin said.

Their business was just one of 11 different small to large businesses honored for their impact on the local community.

“I think Orlando really has the talent and obviously the business leaders to develop these relationships,” NFL player Derrick Brooks explained.

With thousands of employees among the companies awarded, Gov. Scott spoke on the importance of supporting companies that generate jobs.

“The Central Florida area has just been a big job creator and that’s what has brought us down here. And Bright House has been a big part of that,” Governor Rick Scott said.

Now these local winners will walk away with a new award, new services and what Bright House sais is most important of all, new connections.

“We are just humbled to be apart of this community. We just have this belief that a rising tide lifts all boats and we just have this deep sense of responsibility to support the business community,” said Josh Ebert, vice president of Business Solutions with Bright House Networks.

Bright House Networks is the parent company of News 13.

Regional Business Awards winners

START-UP

  • First Place: Prestige Food Trucks

SMALL

  • First Place: First Response Disaster Team
  • Second Place: Prosthetic & Orthotic Associates
  • Third Place: Main Street Mower

MEDIUM

  • First Place: Sus Hi Eatstation
  • Second Place: Code School
  • Third Place: Design Interactive

LARGE

  • First Place: Barn Light Electric Company
  • Second Place: Comprehensive Energy Services
  • Third Place: ASL Services

INNOVATOR

  • First Place: Port Orange Chiropractic