The Adirondack Frontier boasts over 1,350 small businesses, each carrying their own unique story and contributing to our local economy. These locally owned enterprises, scattered across the Adirondack Frontier, represent our most valuable asset for fostering a robust local economy.
“Small”, “Locally-Rooted”, “Family-Owned”, ”Independent”, and “Multigenerational” are all descriptors often used to characterize the amazing small businesses driving Franklin County’s economy. These businesses support each other, actively contribute to their community, and keep a significant portion of their revenues within the local economy. They employ your friends, family members and neighbors.
Our central mission and passion revolve around cultivating an ecosystem that facilitates the establishment, growth, and enduring success of these businesses and allowing them to transition smoothly to the next generation. We find daily inspiration in witnessing the hard work, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication exhibited by these entrepreneurs.
In recent years, we have built tools and forged strategic partnerships to help these businesses when they need it. Our top priority is to disseminate this information to every entrepreneur and aspiring business owner, emphasizing two crucial points:
- First, the Adirondack Frontier offers an ideal environment for small businesses to thrive.
- Second, we stand ready and eager to provide support to those who seek it.
We know how important small businesses are to Franklin County. We support small businesses in each of our key industriesthrough financial support, technical assistance, business transition support, and coworking spaces.
Financial Support
We understand that obtaining the necessary capital to start, expand, or transition a business can be a significant challenge. That’s why we are committed to securing and providing funding and financing options for entrepreneurs. We offer small business loans to those who may face difficulties obtaining financing through traditional sources. Additionally, we facilitate connections to various alternative funding opportunities. Moreover, eligible businesses can benefit from our grant funding programs, designed to support the establishment and growth of their enterprises.
Technical Assistance
We offer valuable technical assistance to both aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses. We pride ourselves on connecting businesses with the essential information and resources they require to thrive.LLeveraging our extensive network of resource providers and our comprehensive knowledge of opportunities, we empower startups and established companies alike, fostering their success and growth.
Business Transition Support
Small business continuity is crucial, and we are here to ensure that businesses can successfully transition to the next generation of entrepreneurs. The Adirondack North Country Center for Businesses in Transition (CBIT) provides invaluable support. Through our matchmaking services, we connect potential buyers with businesses in transition. We offer access to essential planning tools and connections to existing services. As a CBIT partner, we facilitate access to specialists, resources, and education on best practices for both business buyers and sellers. Whether you’re considering a transition now or planning for the future, we are your trusted partner in charting your path to success.
Coworking Space
We understand that entrepreneurs and knowledge workers often benefit from collaborative workspaces. That’s why we’re proud to introduce The Carry, a coworking space located in the heart of downtown Saranac Lake. The Carry provides an innovative and flexible workspace for Saranac Lake’s vibrant community of entrepreneurs. Our coworking space encourages collaboration, networking, and access to valuable resources. With options for annual, monthly, and daily usage, The Carry is your go-to destination for fostering your entrepreneurial spirit and connecting with like-minded professionals.
The Adirondack Frontier provides the perfect landscape for small business owners and entrepreneurs to bring their dreams to life. It’s a place where innovation thrives, where community values run deep, and where your entrepreneurial spirit can truly soar.
P.S. Want to learn about USDA funded Main Street Economic Plans, Brownfields, and Small Business Assistance Programs? Attend the Lake Champlain – Lake George Regional Planning Board conference on October 5th. Cost to register is $20 and the deadline is September 15. To register, visit www.lclgrpb.org or follow this registration link.
