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One of Australia's pioneering IVF clinics has been recognised as the 2012 Telstra Tasmanian Business of the Year.

The Premier, Lara Giddings, tonight congratulated TasIVF, which began as a part-time fertility service in Hobart in 1983.

"From humble beginnings, TasIVF has become an example of what can be achieved through a commitment to constant innovation, research and a dedication to quality customer service.

"This is a business that has literally changed the lives of hundreds of Tasmanian families."

Ms Giddings said the awards, now in their 20th year, recognised the dedication, hard work and skills of Tasmanian business operators.

"Being in business can be both rewarding and challenging and I am acutely aware that the past year has not been an easy one for many of our small to medium businesses," Ms Giddings said.

"But it is important that we celebrate the resilience and excellence of our business sector, which provides jobs for Tasmanians.

"But events such as this highlight the fact that Tasmanian businesses are, by nature, self-reliant, innovative, responsive and entrepreneurial.

"For example, it is encouraging that 95 per cent of tonight's winners and finalists have actively adopted social media and online presence as a key part of their business model.

"The State Government is committed to helping the state's businesses become more self-reliant by attaining the skills they need to realise their full potential, especially online.

"The Tasmanian award finalists have shown that one of the best ways to achieve business growth is through embracing the digital economy.

"Through the Economic Development Plan, the State Government has a number of initiatives to improve the business operating environment, as outlined in the Small Business Strategy released last year.

Ms Giddings congratulated the other Tasmanian awards winners, who will share $500,000 in cash and prizes. The winners will also become part of an exclusive national business alumni, with the national awards to be held in Sydney on 29 August.

The winners for the 2012 Telstra Tasmanian Business Awards are:

HTC Start Up Award

MacTavish West Pty Ltd (South Hobart) 

The food science consultancy helps farmers and food manufacturers improve flavour, colour and nutritional qualities of plant-derived products.

News Limited Micro Business Award

Shima Wasabi (Perth)

Supplies leading Australian restaurants, the food service industry and selected overseas markets with locally-grown wasabi.

MYOB Small Business Award

TasIVF Pty Ltd (Hobart) 

Commonwealth Bank Medium Business Award

Novaris Pty Ltd (Kingston) 

Starting in a small workshop in 1993, the company has become a global leader in inventing and manufacturing lightning and surge protection solutions.

Regional Award

Shima Wasabi (Perth) 

1300Australia People's Choice Award

Ink Slave Tattoos (Berriedale)  The body art and piercing business has maintained steady growth through a reputation for great designs and referrals via social media.