CenterState CEO Celebrates More Than 300 Economic Champions

318 Companies Recognized for Creating Jobs; Growth and Expansion; Capital Investments; New Business Openings and More

Community Visionary Award Presented to Constellation

CenterState CEO’s annual Economic Champions Celebration, presented by FustCharles and AmeriCU Credit Union, recognized the collective contributions of 318 companies and organizations to the growth and vibrancy of the Central New York economy. Nearly 600 community members helped to celebrate during the event at the Oncenter Oct. 15, 2026.

Nominees were recognized for their aggregate hiring of more than 3,700 employees, over 1.4 million square-feet of expansions, and over $1.5 billion in capital investments. In a sign of positive economic momentum, 110 businesses were recognized for opening new storefronts, offices and facilities; 54 were highlighted for celebrating a milestone anniversary; 143 were recognized for receiving significant awards and achievements and 22 organizations and firms were noted for companies advancing equity and inclusion in their workplaces and community.

Companies are nominated as Economic Champions by CenterState CEO and the Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, peers, employees and staff, as well as self-nominations.

CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson said, “Our Economic Champions represent the businesses, nonprofits and institutions that are believing, investing and delivering impact during this pivotal moment of opportunity and growth for Central New York. From creating jobs and making significant capital investments to opening new storefronts and celebrating milestones, their achievements are making our community a more vibrant place to live and work. As we recognize their contributions, we also celebrate the collective ambition and collaboration needed to build on this momentum and ensure our region reaches its full potential.”

The celebration event also featured a conversation between Opportunity@Work’s Chief Impact Officer Papia Debroy and CenterState CEO President Ben Sio. Their conversation highlighted strategies to open pathways to opportunity by recognizing skills beyond traditional credentials. 

Debroy said, "Central New York is at an inflection point. Can this moment of economic investment translate into lasting opportunity for the region's workforce, including workers whose skills and potential have too often been overlooked? At Opportunity@Work, our research shows that more than half of Syracuse's workforce is Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STARs), and over 70,000 of these workers already have the skills for higher-wage jobs. As new industries take root and AI reshapes the world of work, the opportunity is to recognize this talent, build pathways to good jobs, and ensure that the region's economic growth translates into lasting prosperity for its people. That's what makes the leadership of Central New York's business community so important at this moment."

The Economic Champions Event also marks the annual recognition of CenterState CEO’s Community Visionary Award, sponsored by Wegmans Food Markets. Constellation was honored as this year's awardee for its leadership in Central New York and its role as a true partner committed to community prosperity.

“Constellation has long been a steadfast partner to Oswego County and communities across Central New York,” said Evelyn Ingram, Wegmans director of Community Engagement. “Their community work addresses some of our region’s most pressing needs. By advancing workforce development, leading on regional priorities and investing in local organizations, Constellation has shown what it means to be a force for greater prosperity across Central New York. Wegmans is proud to honor Constellation with this year’s Community Visionary Award.”

Constellation has helped to create pathways for underrepresented individuals to join programs that prepare them for in-demand careers in the region, supporting Oswego Build and initiatives like the Work Ready and Trades Community Signing Day. Notably, Constellation was a leader in spearheading the Oswego County Childcare Investment Fund, which helps provide financial assistance and resources to childcare providers for expanding facilities and training. The company is also at the forefront of critical regional economic development priorities, such as advancing opportunities to create stable, long-term support for building additional nuclear energy and a clean energy future for New York. Additionally, Constellation and its employees support numerous nonprofits, community organizations and events through investment, sponsorship and employees volunteerism. In 2025, Constellation and its 2,300 employees donated nearly $2 million across New York state and volunteered nearly 15,000 hours with nonprofits.

“Constellation is honored to be recognized as CenterState CEO’s 2026 Community Visionary Award winner,” said Tim Peter, Senior Vice President, Northeast Operations. “Our commitment to this region goes well beyond providing safe, reliable, carbon-free energy. We’re investing in people, strengthening workforce pathways and partnering with organizations that are creating opportunity, helping our communities thrive. This recognition reflects the dedication of our employees and community partners who together are building a promising future for our region.

Watch the 2026 Community Visionary Award video and more highlight videos of this year’s Economic Champions on CenterState CEO’s YouTube Channel.

CenterState CEO thanks its 2026 Eco nomic Champions Celebrations Sponsors!