Diagnostic Instrument Group Selected as a Semi-Finalist for the Small Business of the Year Award Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce in Tampa, Florida

Tampa, FL, June 28, 2008 --(PR.com)-- Diagnostic Instrument Group, a leading global provider of refurbished ophthalmic equipment, announced recently that it was selected as a semi-finalist for the 2008 Tampa Small Business of the Year Award, presented by the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce.

Of the nearly 300 nominations, Diagnostic Instrument Group was named one of ten semi-finalists in the 21-50 employees category. Other award categories include 5-20 and 51-250 employees. As small businesses encompass half of the U.S. workforce, the Tampa Small Business of the Year Awards recognizes the exemplary companies headquartered in Hillsborough County, Florida, which represent this important business segment.

“We are honored and humbled to be recognized – especially within the group of companies that have also made it thus far,” says Nelson Tobin, President and founder of DIG. Included in this group is Vertical IT Solutions, who not only nominated DIG but are semi-finalists as well in the same category.

Judging for the prestigious business award is based on five criteria: history and philosophy, business goals and planning, operational management, innovativeness, and community leadership. Finalists will be announced July 18, and the winner will be selected during an awards dinner on September 19.

Diagnostic Instrument Group is an international distributor of new, pre-owned and refurbished ophthalmic equipment. They have been in business for 16 years. Their 16,000 square foot corporate office located in Tampa, Florida includes a 7 man tech bay, paint booth, upholstery department and machinery shop. Services include equipment repair, rentals, phoropter cleaning and appraisals which may result in the purchase of pre-owned equipment.

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