2022 Year-End

2022 is in the books and here at the Franklin County Economic Development Corporation we are anticipating a great 2023! This year we will remain focused on the following goals:

1. Strong Economic Development Climate 
2. Vibrant Entrepreneurial Culture 
3. Flourishing Downtowns & Main Streets 
4. Resilient Industries

We find our work in these areas very rewarding and we are passionate about supporting the people, communities and businesses that call Franklin County home.

This year we will:

• Support efforts to expand broadband, child care, and housing, and strengthen our workforce so that our residents can thrive.
• Connect our small businesses to the technical and financial resources they need to grow stronger.
• Continue to build the Adirondack Frontier Main Street Program so that our main streets and downtowns are thriving “living rooms” for our communities and engines for economic growth.
• Celebrate and support our agriculture, biotech, tourism, and other key industries.

I am so proud of the work the staff and Board of Directors accomplished together last year. I’ve shared some highlights below. Thank you for everything you do to make the Adirondack Frontier an amazing place to live!

To a happy and prosperous 2023!

Jeremy Evans, CEO
Franklin County Economic Development Corporation

Strong Economic Development Climate

Land Bank
In 2022 the Franklin County Legislature prioritized creation of the Franklin County Land Bank Corporation, an entity that will be able to focus on removing blighted buildings from our communities and support the creation of affordable housing. FCEDC was proud to assist the county with writing the application and we look forward to the creation of the land bank in 2023.

Broadband
Another priority for Franklin County is broadband and FCEDC was able to assist the County and its communities in reviewing the National Broadband Map and identifying missing addresses that should be added to the map. Accurate mapping will make it easier for the county to advocate for additional funding to bring broadband to unserved areas.

Vibrant Entrepreneurial Culture

Expansion of The Carry
In 2022 we were able to greatly increase the size of The Carry, the co-working space FCEDC operates along with its partners, Point Positive Inc. and the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. With a larger conference room and expanded desk and seating options, The Carry keeps on growing. Learn more here. 

Small Business Assistance Program
On behalf of Franklin County, FCEDC distributed $500,000 in competitive federal grant funds to seven small businesses in Franklin County to help them recover from the pandemic or build resilience for future challenges.

Center for Business in Transition Partner. We are very honored to be a partner with the Center for Businesses in Transition. In 2022 we were able to continue to assist Franklin County businesses owners who are preparing to sell their businesses. Learn more about resources available through the Center. 

Flourishing Downtowns & Main Streets

Adirondack Frontier Main Street Program
In 2022 we were able to successfully complete a building renovation grant program funded through the New York Main Street Program. Although we were slowed by the pandemic, we ultimately awarded over $250,000 that was leveraged to make improvements to four buildings in the Park Street area of Tupper Lake and two buildings in Downtown Saranac Lake.

Resilient Industries

Industry Promotion
In 2022 FCEDC embarked on an effort to promote our key industries, including agriculture. We recently released a marketing video highlighting Carsada Dairy in Malone, a 3rd generation dairy farm that continues to grow. Check it out here and stay tuned for more videos in 2023!

Renewable Energy
2022 was a great year for renewable energy development in Franklin County. The Franklin County Industrial Development Agency approved incentives for three community solar projects that will leverage over $23 million in investment in Franklin County. These projects also provide local residents and businesses to purchase renewable energy at a discounted rate. Learn more about these projects.