The number of firms certified as zone companies doubled in the year 2000 compared to the year before. In 2000, those organizations created 1,564 new full-time positions and since the zone was established they have developed 5,851 jobs and more than $1.3 billion in investment. In Poughkeepsie, they were responsible for 103 new positions and overall investment of $13.7 million.

Empire Zone officials attribute the large increase in business activity to enhanced benefits that were part of state legislation passed in May 2000. Empire Zone Director Anne Conroy notes that, "The new Empire Zone tax benefits passed by the legislature have provided major, expanded incentives for all types of businesses. With these incentives, the zone program has attracted large investments, but is also a powerful tool for existing businesses to use to expand within the zone. The 2000 results show that both small and large businesses are taking advantage of the program."