Adirondack Innovation Initiative (A2I)

A project powered by the Adirondack Community Foundation to build a tech innovation ecosystem and network in the greater Adirondacks. The purpose of A2I is to help more people live in the Adirondack region full-time, with a good job that supports a sustainable lifestyle. We see tech and tech-adjacent jobs as one of the pathways to do that. 

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  • People watching a panel discussion.

 

The Adirondack Launchpad pitch competition was a success!

 
Congratulations to the winners and all those that submitted a business idea! 

Who We Are

A2I was started by Adirondack Community Foundation in order to continue its work to connect people, ideas, and resources to improve lives and expand opportunities throughout the Adirondack region.

  1. Mission

    Drive job growth, connections and economic opportunity in the greater Adirondacks through tech and tech adjacent jobs.

  2. Purpose

    To help more people live in the greater Adirondacks full time with a good job that supports a sustainable lifestyle.

  3. Vision

    By 2045, there are more year round residents in the park than in 2025, more young people are staying and moving to the area, and there is greater opportunity to live and work here with a good job.

What We Do

  • A2I Jan Abby talking

    Building a network of tech enabled working professionals.

  • A2I One Year Celeb Group

    Facilitating access to tech training, education and tech resources.

  • two men shaking hands

    Expanding access to tech and tech adjacent job opportunities.
     

Pieces of the A2I Tech Ecosystem

  1. Remote + Hybrid Workers Network

  2. Mentor/Mentee Program

  3. Tech Skills & Education

  4. Talent & Opportunity Connection

  5. Physical Gathering Spaces

  6. Funding & Support

  7. Positive Awareness

  8. Startup Incubator/Accelerator

A2I in the News

  • A2I pitch event stock photo
    Launchpad challenge aims to find next big Adirondack ideas 

    October 21, 2025 - Tim Rowland

    Shark Tank'-style competition aims to uncover next generation of North Country entrepreneurs

    Adirondack Explorer
  • A2I Old Pharmacy Building Outside
    1870s building revitalized with Old Pharmacy Development Project

    August 29, 2025 - Alvin Reiner

    Dubbed “a true blueprint for rural revitalization and innovation in action,” the Old Pharmacy Development Project currently includes three ventures

    Adirondack Daily Enterprise
  • A2I Matt Dunne
    We want people to live here and thrive here.

    August 7, 2025 - Alvin Reiner

    Adirondack Foundation holds seminar in an effort to connect people, ideas, resources

    Press-Republican
  • A2I One Year Celeb Group
    ON THE SCENE: Adirondack Innovation Initiative celebrates first milestone

    August 7, 2025 - Naj Wikoff

    A year ago, the Adirondack Community Foundation launched the Adirondack Innovation Initiative (A2I) to help build and grow a tech-focused ecosystem within the Adirondacks, a program led by Svetlana Filipson.

    Lake Placid News
  • A2I Svet Matt Craig
    For Adirondacks’ rural tech network, a race against AI

    August 9, 2025 - Tim Rowland

    Adirondack Innovation Initiative’s remote worker network grows from 15 to 300 members as automation reshapes industry.

    Adirondack Explorer
  • A2I Panel Discussion Jan 23 img 1
    Forum explores future of tech innovation in the Adirondacks

    February 3, 2025 - Tim Rowland

    Tech leaders share insights as to how remote jobs can revitalize the Adirondack region

    Photo by Nancie Battaglia.

    Adirondack Explorer
  • discussion panel participants on stage. Photo by Eric Teed
    Jobs 2.0: Key takeaways and watch the event recording

    October 24, 2024

    Adirondack Explorer’s Jobs 2.0 event highlights challenges, opportunities in the Adirondacks job market.

    Photo credit to Eric Teed

    Adirondack Explorer
  • Tech Jobs Illustration from Adirondack Explorer
    How tech innovation is revitalizing Adirondack communities

    October 13, 2024 - Tim Rowland

    Tech jobs create opportunities for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts to live and work in the Adirondacks.

    Adirondack Explorer

Interested in Learning More?

Get in Touch

Contact us if you’re interested in learning more or getting involved with the Adirondack Innovation Initiative (A2I).

woman in front of mountain view

Svetlana Filipson

Adirondack Innovation Initiative (A2I) Director

See Member