Several area businesses were honored Tuesday at the University of California, Merced Small Business Development Center (SBDC) awards luncheon in Fresno.

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The annual small business recognition program acknowledges outstanding firms that have benefited from SBDC services such as business consulting, workshops, government contracting and veterans business support.

The UC Merced regional network consists of five SBDC locations covering 14 Central California counties.

Fresno-based Current Culture H20, designer, manufacturer and distributer of hydroponic plant growing systems, received the Innovation and Technology Business of the Year award. Founded in 2006, the company has experienced annual growth and currently employs 15 people. Current Culture H20 has plans to expand into a new manufacturing facility this year.

Other award winners include:

Outstanding Business of the Year — Patterson-based Advanced Linen Service

Rising Star of the Year — Bakersfield-based TRIS Technology Solutions

Woman Owned Business of the Year — San Luis Obispo-based Q-Flex

Veteran Owned Business of the Year — Ridgecrest-based Warren’s Automotive

Family Owned Business of the year — Morro Bay-based Elemental Herbs