Meet the 2025 Business of the Year Winners
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Congratulations 2025 Business of the Year Winners!
CenterState CEO's Business of the Year Awards recognize the outstanding achievements of regional businesses and organizations in five categories. Winners were announced at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Visit CenterState CEO's YouTube channel to watch videos from the event, including Business of the Year recognitions, remarks from Rob Simpson, and the event’s speaker. Download CenterState CEO’s 2024-2025 Annual Report.
This year’s winners are:
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More than 50 EmployeesVIP StructuresVIP Structures is a design-build firm that offers services in architecture, engineering, construction, real estate management and property management. In its 50 years, VIP Structures has completed more than 2,500 new construction and renovation projects, significantly contributing to the transformation of Central New York. In 2024, it saw its highest gross revenue in company history, marking a 23% increase from 2023, along with a 30% increase in net income, and 5% rise in sales. Several significant projects completed this year include One Webster’s Landing Apartments, the Food Bank of Central New York expansion, and projects with Kris-Tech Wire, Bluefors and Anoplate. The firm has been recognized nationally, ranking as the 10th Best Medium-Sized Employer in New York State. As a locally rooted firm, VIP Structures prioritizes working with regional vendors and tradespeople, keeping dollars local, and creating job opportunities that strengthen Central New York’s economy.
Additional finalists: Hidden Level, Inc., Lotte Biologics USA, LLC |
Fewer than 50 EmployeesHome Sweet Home Cleaning and Gardening LLCHome Sweet Home Cleaning and Gardening LLC provides high quality residential cleaning services across Onondaga, Oneida and Madison counties. In 2024, Home Sweet Home saw impressive growth, reaching $1.5 million in revenue—an increase of 25%. Their leadership and business growth efforts were recognized by numerous prestigious awards, including the Mohawk Valley Best of the Best Cleaning Company award and the Green Jacket Award from Cleaning Business Fundamentals, which highlights business growth and leadership. Home Sweet Home has also made significant strides in community engagement and employee development. As a Top 100 Partner with Cleaning for a Reason, the company provided over 100 hours of free cleaning services to women undergoing cancer treatment in 2024. Employee satisfaction remained a priority, with mentorship programs, performance-based bonuses and monthly feedback surveys strengthening the company culture.
Additional finalists: Chimera Integrations, ConsciousHR |
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NonprofitOswego County Federal Credit UnionOswego County Federal Credit Union (OCFCU) has become an essential part of Oswego County’s growth and development. Grounded in its "people helping people" philosophy, OCFCU continually demonstrates its commitment to community welfare through its initiatives and responsible financial practices. OCFCU has launched numerous programs that directly benefit the community. This year, the "Gloves with Love" initiative, in partnership with Constellation, marks its tenth year of providing winter clothing to those in need. The “CU Cares” program empowers branches to donate $25,000 to local organizations annually, while the “Helping Hands” program educates members about accessing public and private benefits such as healthcare and childcare. In addition, OCFCU partners with David’s Refuge, a nonprofit offering support to families of children with special needs and life-threatening diseases. As a designated Community Development Financial Institution, OCFCU is dedicated to serving low-income and underserved communities, further reinforcing its role as a force for positive change in the region.
Additional finalists: Loretto, YMCA of Central New York |
Community InvolvementUpstate Medical UniversityUpstate Medical University, a dedicated community leader to advancing health programs, is educating the next generation of health care providers and is committed to building a healthier community for all. Upstate leads various fundraising campaigns, such as the American Heart Walk and the United Way Community Giving Campaign. In 2024, Upstate's employees and retirees raised over $621,000 for the United Way. Its employee-driven programs, including Team Upstate and the Emerging Leaders group, focus on volunteering, community service and supporting local nonprofits. Additionally, Upstate provides health education through forums like HealthLink and Oasis, and partners with organizations such as the Syracuse City School District to address mental health needs.
Additional finalists: AmeriCU Credit Union, Equitable |
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Minority-owned Business, in partnership with UMEAL Stacks Construction Co. LLCL Stacks Construction Co. LLC offers hauling services for new construction projects and is currently working on the 1-81 Project. Founded in 2018, L Stacks Construction has experienced profitability since 2023, achieving over $500,000 in sales last year and is projected to double that in the coming years. The company is committed to providing cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions that meet customer needs and help clients achieve their objectives. L Stacks Construction is dedicated to community involvement and workforce development. The company actively hires local employees and has helped over 30 trucking companies achieve certification, with a focus on combating poverty and promoting economic growth.
Additional finalists: Champions Martial Arts Inc., Cuse Culture Media Group |
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CEO News
CEO News | 04/10/2025CenterState CEO and Greater Syracuse Business Development Corporation form New PartnershipCenterState CEO and the Greater Syracuse Business Development Corporation (GSBDC) announced a new strategic partnership to scale GSBDC’s lending resources and better serve the region’s small businesses. |
