Finger Lakes Textiles Won New York Competition
The Waterloo-based manufacturer secured the title after a statewide voting period.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Finger Lakes Textiles and Arctic Gear has been named the winner of the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in New York competition. The honor follows a six-week public voting process hosted by the Business Council of New York State.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the success of the manufacturer, a division of Mozaic that provides employment and apparel production in the Finger Lakes region. The win underscores the community and economic significance of organizations operating under The Arc New York umbrella.
The competition featured 38 entries and generated more than 40,000 votes over a six-week period. The Arc New York, the parent organization, employs 30,000 people and supports 60,000 individuals with disabilities.
The players
Finger Lakes Textiles and Arctic Gear
This is a Waterloo-based manufacturer that produces hats and apparel as a division of Mozaic.
The Business Council of New York State
This organization represents the interests of businesses and hosted the annual competition.
The Arc New York
This organization has operated for over 75 years and provides support to 60,000 people with disabilities.
The details
Representatives from Finger Lakes Textiles and Arctic Gear secured the win after presenting their apparel products and employment approach during the Business Council's annual meeting. The company operates as a division of Mozaic, which is a local chapter of the statewide organization The Arc New York.
Timeline
2026: Finger Lakes Textiles and Arctic Gear won the contest.
2027: The organization will host a stop on the Manufacturing Bus Tour.
Market Landscape
This win marks the conclusion of the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in New York competition. The recognition provides a platform for the manufacturer to showcase its production capabilities alongside other industry participants.
Consumers and local stakeholders can expect increased visibility for the Waterloo-based manufacturer throughout the upcoming year. The designation serves as a hallmark for the organization's regional employment and production efforts.
The takeaway
The success of this manufacturer demonstrates the vital role that inclusive employment models play in local industry. Consumers can support the organization by learning more about their apparel production and the broader mission of The Arc New York.
What happens next
Finger Lakes Textiles and Arctic Gear will host a stop on the 2027 Manufacturing Bus Tour.
Further reading
For more on community-focused initiatives in the state, visit Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fingerlakes1.
Live Poll
Should your community prioritize businesses that employ people with disabilities when evaluating local manufacturing success?
