The Business Council Announces Winner of
Third Annual ‘Coolest Thing Made in New York’ Contest
ALBANY, NY – The Business Council of New York State, Inc. announced today that Finger Lakes Textiles, a division of Mozaic and based in Waterloo, New York, was named the winner of the Business Council’s Third Annual “Coolest Thing Made in New York” contest. The winner was announced at the Business Council’s Annual Awards Dinner Thursday evening at the Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing.
“Congratulations to Finger Lakes Textiles on this well-earned recognition,” said Heather Mulligan, President and CEO of The Business Council of New York State, Inc. “Manufacturing is essential to creating meaningful employment and producing the many goods and services that so many from New York and beyond rely on every day. Thank you to all who entered this year’s contest and for ensuring that the Empire State’s economy can continue to grow and thrive.”
The “Coolest Thing Made in New York” contest was launched by The Business Council three years ago in an effort to highlight and raise awareness about our state’s vast manufacturing industry while also celebrating the hard-working men and women who create many products right here at home.
38 manufacturers from across the State of New York entered this year’s contest back in July. Following several rounds of popular voting from the public – which allowed communities to have a direct say in determining this year’s winner - the field was eventually narrowed down to the top 16 manufacturers. From there, a head-to-head bracket-style competition took place until there were two finalists.
The two finalists this year were Moog, Inc. and Finger Lakes Textiles.
The winner, Finger Lakes Textiles, manufactures Arctic Gear, including a winter hat that is made specifically by individuals with disabilities and U.S. military veterans. From knitting and sewing, to inspection and finishing, each hat represents New York craftsmanship while also creating meaningful employment opportunities to over 50 individuals in a rural community.
The “Coolest Thing Made in New York” trophy is also manufactured by Alcoa, an aluminum company based in Massena, New York. Alcoa was a participant and finalist in the 1st Annual “Coolest Thing Made in New York” contest.
The Business Council will continue to highlight our state’s manufacturers during Manufacturing Week by kicking off its statewide manufacturing bus tour beginning this Friday, October 2nd.
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