BANGOR – Two local businesses were honored for their contributions to the state’s economy by the Maine State Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday.

Hancock Lumber of Casco won the 2003 Maine Investor Award, a recognition of its growth and the economic development it brings to the area and the state. Tambrands of Auburn won the President’s Recognition Award for promoting the mission and activities of the Chamber.

Hancock Lumber, which began as a small logging operation in 1848, has grown to include three sawmills and nine retail stores for building products. It employs 500.

The company is the largest producer of eastern white pine lumber in the country and ships its products nationwide. The Chamber cited the company for its investment in the community and state.

“In every aspect of its operation, Hancock Lumber seeks to foster a spirit of pride, excellence and commitment to the community,” read the statement announcing the award.

Tambrands was cited for its tireless advocacy work in Augusta as part of the Chamber’s Grassroots Action Network. The network monitors legislative actions and coordinates lobbying efforts on the Chamber’s behalf. Tambrands has been especially active in fighting for the BETR tax reimbursement program, which offers businesses a tax break on capital investments. The manufacturer, a subsidiary of Procter & Gamble, employs 650 and makes 10 million tampons a day.

“Time and again, (employees from Tambrands) articulate how bills would affect the company and its employees,” read the recognition. “They were diligent to remind lawmakers of the investments businesses make in communities throughout Maine and to illustrate the definition of a good corporate citizen.”

The awards were presented at the Chamber’s annual meeting in Bangor.