SYRACUSE, N.Y. — A Syracuse real-estate developer will be the 49th recipient of the Crystal Ball Award from the Central New York Sales & Marketing Executives (CNYSME).
Ryan Benz is the founder and CEO of Redev CNY, a Syracuse–based real-estate development firm.
CNYSME will recognize Benz at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown during the annual Crystal Ball and Sales & Marketing Excellence Awards presentation and celebration, which is set for on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
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“Ryan exemplifies the meaning of what the Crystal Ball Award stands for, as well as sales and marketing,” Charles Harkola, president of CNYSME, said in the announcement. “His commitment to redeveloping Central New York with style and grace is second to none, and I look forward to presenting him with this honorable award.”
“An enduring symbol of the organization’s mission,” the Crystal Ball is awarded annually by CNYSME to a local businessperson or group of businesspeople in recognition of their contributions to the sales and marketing profession and for their endeavors in the areas of community development and support.
The criteria for Crystal Ball recognition includes, but is not limited to: holding a position of CEO, president or director of a Central New York (CNY) business; a person whose visibility impacts the progress and prosperity of CNY; a leader who demonstrates commitment to superior quality and professionalism; a person who fosters excellence in their industry; local involvement in community and civic organizations; and an individual who demonstrates and practices an appreciation of the sales and marketing industry.
About Ryan Benz
Under the leadership of Benz, Redev CNY and its affiliated entities have completed and are currently developing hundreds of millions of dollars in mixed-use, residential, and affordable housing projects that are “redefining equitable growth and urban revitalization across upstate New York,” CNYSME said.
Redev CNY’s landmark projects include the Moyer Carriage Lofts (completed in partnership with Housing Visions and Acropolis Realty Group). It’s a mixed-income community that “blends historic preservation with forward-looking affordability,” creating 128 new homes for Central New York families including 50 units for individuals with serious mental illnesses and domestic violence victims.
Benz and his team have also worked on the St. Matthew’s Condominiums in East Syracuse and The Lofts at 1117 West Fayette St., projects resulting in attainable homeownership opportunities for households earning moderate incomes.
Redev CNY was the first development firm in New York State to utilize the state’s Affordable Homeownership Opportunity Program (AHOP) — “a milestone that has since become a model for other communities across the state,” CNYSME said.
Away from his job duties, Benz also serves as vice-chair of the United Way of Central New York and as a chair of the board of commissioners of the Syracuse Housing Authority. He is also a board member for the Center for Community Alternatives and the South Side Community Growth Foundation.
