our team

Shelby Schneider

Shelby Schneider is President and Chief Executive Officer of Upstate Capital and the Capital Foundation of NY. With more than 20 years of experience building and strengthening New York’s economic ecosystem, Schneider brings a wealth of connections, knowledge, and leadership to Upstate Capital and the NYBPC.

Shelby spent her career at the intersection of business, community and opportunity. She recently served as Deputy Director of the New York State Economic Development Council (NYSEDC), and had various roles in economic development and private industry in Saratoga County New York over the past 25 years.

Thomas Boomhower

Thomas Boomhower serves as the Senior Director of Program Management. In his role, Thomas leads key initiatives like the New York Business Plan Competition (NYBPC) and the Invest NY innovation ecosystem data platform. His responsibilities encompass event production, grant and sponsorship development, stakeholder engagement and strategic program design, all focused on accelerating regional growth and opportunity.

Previously, Thomas served as the Economic Development Specialist for Greene County, NY, where he played a pivotal role in supporting local businesses and driving economic and community development initiatives. He holds a B.S. from Russell Sage College and an M.A. in American History from SUNY Albany.