Still searching for that perfect holiday gift? We’ve compiled a list of items with a Syracuse connection, many celebrating the entrepreneurial endeavors of University alumni. Whether you’re shopping for foodies, bookworms, sports fans or anyone in between, these Syracuse-connected businesses offer quality products with an Orange twist.

For Beverage Lovers

For the caffeine fiend on your list, consider scooping up a bag of ’Cuse Coffee Blend, a collaboration between Rocket Cup Coffee and the Syracuse University Alumni Association. Another option: City Girl Coffee, founded by Alyza Bohbot James ’08, offering a selection of sustainably sourced specialty coffee.

For the 21-and-over crowd, many cocktail enthusiasts appreciate Dirty Sue olive juice and garnishes, created by Eric M. Tecosky ’91. The brand has become a staple for martini lovers and home bartenders looking to elevate their drink game.

Or, you can skip straight to the booze with Smooth Tauker’s line of Mojito and Mexican Mule canned cocktails, co-founded by Giancarlo Franco ’21, or the University-branded wines from Mano’s Wine, also a partnership with the Alumni Association.

For Foodies and Sweet Tooths

Syracuse entrepreneurs have conquered the condiment category, too. Consider Dicey’s Spicy—“a spicy sauce evolution of ketchup and mayo, each bottle handcrafted to perfection”—founded by Brian Nacht ’09. No Syracuse food lover’s pantry is complete without Hot Tom spicy hot tomato sauce and dipping oil, created by Karyn Korteling ’81.

Shooka Sauce makes shakshuka—the popular Mediterranean egg dish—simple enough for busy mornings. Founded by Natasha Brao ’22, G’24, the garlic, cumin and red pepper-spiced tomato sauce has won several innovation and entrepreneurship competitions on campus in recent years.

Sweet treats abound from Orange alumni: The Syracuse-based Chocolate Pizza Company, owned by Ryan Novak ’11, offers whimsical desserts that are as fun to look at as they are to eat. Baked by Melissa, created by Melissa Ben-Ishay ’06, ships bite-sized cupcakes and other tantalizing treats nationwide.

For Neat Freaks

Organization enthusiasts will love Lay-N-Go storage solutions, founded by Adam Fazackerley ’96 and his wife Amy, which make packing and cleanup effortless. The couple, who also co-chair the Libraries Advisory Board, have created products that transform how families and travelers stay organized.

Cleaning enthusiasts likely already know about Scrub Daddy, but they might not know it was created by Aaron Krause ’92. The smiling sponge has become a household name and makes a practical, cheerful gift.

For Fashionistas

Fans can show off their Orange pride with a throwback Otto mascot jersey, available through the NIL Store. Celebrating our beloved mascot’s name, image and likeness (NIL) deal, signed earlier this year, it’s a fun way for fans to support Athletics and the mascot program. For more apparel ideas and other unique gifts, don’t forget about the Campus Bookstore.

For Book Lovers

Writers affiliated with Syracuse’s renowned creative writing program have several recent releases that just might please the readers on your list, including:

• “We Love You, Bunny” by Mona Awad, Esther M. Larsen Faculty Fellow in the Humanities and assistant professor of English in the College of Arts and Sciences
• “Vigil” by George Saunders G’88, professor of English, now available for pre-order with a Jan. 27 release date—perfect for someone on your list looking ahead to their first great read of 2026
• “Starting from Here,” a novel by Paula Saunders G’87, released this summer
• “Heart the Lover” by Lily King G’95, released this fall

For readers of all ages, check out A Mighty Girl, co-founded by Carolyn Danckaert G’07 and Aaron Smith G’07. It offers books and products celebrating strong female role models.

Shop With Purpose

The D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) maintains a comprehensive holiday gift guide featuring military-owned businesses, many of whom are graduates of IVMF programs, offering another avenue to support entrepreneurs with Syracuse connections while honoring those who have served.

Note: To ensure arrival by a specific date, be sure to check individual websites for more information on shipping timeframes.