TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Several small businesses were recognized Tuesday for their hard work.

The Kansas Small Business Development Center announced the 2013 Emerging and Existing Businesses of the year at a ceremony Tuesday.

Each of the eight KSBDC regional centers selected one emerging and one existing business for the award.

16 small businesses were selected from more than 2,700 entrepreneurs who received KSBDC services in 2012.

"The businesses were selected after careful consideration by our regional directors and consultants," said Greg Panichello, KSBDC state director. "The continuing difficult national economy has provided numerous opportunities for small businesses to adapt and proser in response. Collectively, we feel these 16 small businesses are excellent examples of small business adaptation and success in challenging times."

Emerging and Existing businesses of the year include:
-ash llc, Owned by Amy and Steve Harmon in Emporia
-Kessler Kreations, Owned by Marie Kessler in Hillsboro
-Oberlin Knife Shop, Owned by J.W. and Deb Smith in Oberlin
-Hays Fire and Rescue Sales & Service LLC, owned by Kelvin and DeAnn Meyers in Hays
-Pumpkin Paradise LLC, Owned by Steve and Janet Weidner in Sublette
-Sunflower Creations, Owned by Gerald and Lois Nichols in Copeland
-New York Dawg Pound, Owned by Sal Frustaci and Will Brown in Overland Park
-hr-haven inc., Owned by Belinda Waggoner in Overland Park
-Molly's Table, Owned by Donna Nagle in Paola
-Lawrence Montessori School, Owned by Purvis and Tiraz Birdie in Lawrence
-Mid Star Lab, Owned by Kari and Ron Wagner in Edwardsville
-Sweet Designs Cakery, Owned by Heather and Roger Horton, Jr. in Pittsburg
-HayesBrand Molding Inc., Owned by The Hayes Family in Garnett
-Absolute Dimensions LLC, Owned by Stephen Brittain and Michael Rickords in Wichita
-Ohlde's Dairy Inc, Owned by Steve and Cindi Ohlde, Justin and Becky Ohlde and Kyler Ohlde in Linn
-Seneca Variety, Owned by Dona and Jack Willmeth in Seneca
-Pat the Plumber, Owned by Pat and Jennifer Grogan in Topeka