WATERTOWN, MA — MassEcon announced three special recognitions to be presented at its 22nd Annual Team Massachusetts Economic Impact Awards on April 16, 2026, at Gillette Stadium.
The awards include the Massachusetts Summit Achievement Award, the Commonwealth Catalyst Award, and the Chairman’s Award. This marks the first time all three honors will be presented in the same year, according to the organization.
The Massachusetts Summit Achievement Award will be presented to New Balance Athletics, Inc.. The award recognizes employers that have made sustained investments in Massachusetts and demonstrated corporate citizenship.
“For the first time, MassEcon presents these three special awards in the same year,” said Pete Abair, CEO and executive director of MassEcon. “Our Summit Achievement honoree, New Balance, has spread its brand around the world while repeatedly affirming its commitment to grow in Massachusetts.”
Founded in Massachusetts in 1906, New Balance maintains its headquarters and manufacturing operations in the state. The company has expanded facilities in cities including Lawrence and Methuen, and operates a campus in Boston. Its foundation has contributed funding to nonprofit organizations focused on youth development.
The Commonwealth Catalyst Award will be presented to David Clem, chairman of Lyme Properties. The award recognizes individuals who have contributed to economic development across sectors.
“With the Commonwealth Catalyst Award, we honor a pioneer and innovator in David Clem, who helped spur the growth of the life sciences from a nascent industry to a global powerhouse,” Abair said.
Clem played a role in the development of laboratory and research space in Cambridge and Boston, including projects such as the Genzyme Center and the One Kendall Square. His work supported the expansion of biotechnology companies in the region.
The Chairman’s Award will be presented to Avangrid, Inc.. The award recognizes organizations that have contributed to the state’s economic capacity.
“Our Chairman’s Award honors Avangrid, which has delivered, at a critical moment, new sources of energy that will benefit the entire Commonwealth,” Abair said.
Avangrid completed the NECEC transmission line and is nearing completion of the Vineyard Wind 1 project. The two projects are expected to provide approximately 2,000 megawatts of energy to Massachusetts.
The company will also receive a regional Gold Award in the Southeast region.
Citizens is serving as the presenting sponsor of the 2026 awards ceremony, with additional support from organizations including The Kraft Group, CBRE, and Eastern Bank, among others.
The Team Massachusetts Economic Impact Awards recognize companies and individuals contributing to economic growth across the state.
