2014 marked the 5th year that SAMCEDA's annual Awards of Excellence highlighted and celebrated the depth of innovation and entrepreneurship taking place in San Mateo County. Hundreds of companies were thoroughly vetted during the year, fifteen were nominated and six were chosen as Innovators. Innovation is a fundamental pillar of our County's economy. SAMCEDA works to ensure that it continues to be an economic priority for both public and private stakeholders. SAMCEDA also promotes investment in the infrastructure which sustains our competitive business climate. SAMCEDA has long advocated and been a leading voice for the business community on the Peninsula. Our primary objective has and always will be to highlight the important role that business plays in a community and more importantly to communicate that a healthy business community leads to a healthy overall community. The 2014 SAMCEDA Awards of Excellence recognized San Mateo County companies developing and/or providing innovative products and services. These companies are our future and their success is our success. It is through them that we will be able to sustain and maintain the quality of life we all treasure.