South Carolina Department of Commerce Recognizes Charleston County Technology Leader

PeopleMatter, provider of the only comprehensive HR software Platform designed for hourly workforces, announced today that the South Carolina Department of Commerce is recognizing the Company's President and CEO, Nate DaPore, as an Ambassador for Economic Development. The award honors South Carolina executives who have made exceptional contributions to their county and the state's economic development efforts during the previous year.

"Our heartiest of congratulations to Nate DaPore on this richly-deserved recognition," said J. Steven Dykes, Economic Development Director for Charleston County. "Nate has emerged as the leading voice for the Charleston technology community and the transformative promise of the 'Silicon Harbor.' Those that receive the Governor's recognition as S.C. Ambassadors for Economic Development each year must meet stringent criteria for voluntarism that includes championing South Carolina to fellow businesses as a fertile climate for commerce. "

"Nate has truly 'walked the walk' in this regard, not only by putting 'skin in the game' as an entrepreneur and technological innovator, but also as an inspirational business leader mentoring others," continued Dykes. "His tireless advocacy for the 'Digital Corridor' initiative and the statewide tech economy has set a high bar for those who follow, and will pay rich dividends for the Palmetto state for generations to come."

Recognizing Ambassadors for Economic Development is part of South Carolina's 22nd Annual Industry Appreciation Week. The week provides an opportunity to increase visibility on how existing business is a fundamental driver of the state and local economy.

Each year every county selects a recipient; Governor Nikki Haley presented the 2013 Ambassadors with their award on March 19 at the Governor's Mansion Complex. The nominees for Charleston County are selected by the county's Economic Development team from a pool of executives who have made exceptional contributions to community and state economic development during the previous year.

The nominating team reported that DaPore's name kept "bubbling to the top" in discussions. In the end, he was selected for his passion in locating PeopleMatter's headquarters in Charleston –- rather than a more standard technology hub, his efforts to help develop Charleston as the "Silicon Harbor," and the overall success and growth PeopleMatter has experienced in the last year. DaPore is also a member of Young Presidents' Organization (YPO), a board member for the Charleston Digital Corridor Foundation, a supporter of DIG SOUTH and what the nominating committee called, "a serial entrepreneur."

"It is an honor to have been selected for an award that recognizes people for being a part of developing business and supporting economic success in the community," said DaPore. "I have been a long-time proponent of Charleston as a corporate campus. This is my home, and I want to give back to the community and share the historic and cultural benefits of Charleston with my team and other companies moving into the area."

In 2013, the Charleston County's primary economic development goal will be curbing the county's unemployment rate. The Economic Development team intends to accomplish this by supporting defense contractors, biomedical and technology companies in the recruitment of new businesses, assisting existing companies and working to improve the county's business climate. As an Ambassador for Economic Development, DaPore may be called on as a part of corporate recruiting and to showcase how a company can grow within Charleston's knowledge community.

**About PeopleMatter **
PeopleMatter provides the only comprehensive human resource management solution for the service industry. We help employers identify, develop and engage dependable talent to provide exemplary customer service. PeopleMatter's platform of HR tools handles hiring, scheduling, learning, recognition and performance management. Our integrated technology manages the process, so employers can focus on the talent. PeopleMatter. The name says it all. PeopleMatter is headquartered in Charleston, S.C., and on the Web at http://www.peoplematter.com, @peoplematter and facebook.com/PeopleMatter.HR.