Doing Business Here
An ideal balance of economic opportunity and quality of life exists within the Champlain Valley. Over 900 flourishing businesses can be found along the Adirondack Coast, ranging in diversity from local retailers, artisans and restaurants to large manufacturing operations.
Access — Get you and your products to the world's markets
The Adirondack Coast is convenient to some of the world’s largest markets including New York City, Montreal, and Boston. The Interstate 87 corridor provides convenient access to nearby international airports in Albany, Plattsburgh and Montreal, and multiple Amtrak stations are present on the connection between New York City and Montreal. In addition, Canadian Pacific freight rail lines, and deep-water ports in Montreal and Albany allow for expedient shipping and receiving.
Talent and innovation — Easily recruit a trained and energized workforce
World-class innovation, research, and product development contribute to a high quality of life that encourages top talent to live, work and play along the Adirondack Coast. Nearby leading educational institutions include Clarkson University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), SUNY Polytechnic Institute and its Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE).
Business climate — A new New York is driving growth
Since 2011, New York State’s Regional Economic Development initiative has supported multiple growth projects within the greater Adirondack Coast region. Additional initiatives, including the state's Innovation Hot Spots and the START-UP NY programs, are connecting academia with private enterprise to establish a new culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Start-Up Stories
Hear directly from individuals who have relocated here and started a business.
The Village Inn and Red Brick Cafe
Downtown Revitalization Initiative
Ticonderoga will be receiving $10 million in funding from the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). Selected as the North Country town to receive funds, the community is now looking for project submissions. Local organizations and businesses can learn more, including how to apply, online.
The Lake Champlain Region Brand
Explore more about doing business in the Lake Champlain Region.
Key partners: Several entities provide business development services for the entire Adirondack Coast
Adirondack Park Agency (APA) Economic Services Unit
Often the point-of-first-contact for businesses seeking to locate in the Park, the APA’s Economic Services Unit provides businesses with project siting and permitting, regulatory approvals, business planning, and market analysis assistance. Contact Dan Kelleher at 518-891-4050 to learn more about locating your business on the Adirondack Coast!
Essex County Industrial Development Agency (IDA)
The Essex County IDA is a one-stop shop for all business development needs. In addition to providing loans, tax exempt bonds, sales and mortgage tax exemptions, and payment in lieu of taxes agreements (PILOTs), the IDA can help you with business planning, project siting, grant development, and regulatory approvals. Contact the IDA at 518.873.9114.
North Country Chamber of Commerce
The North Country Chamber of Commerce has taken the lead on may regional economic development initiatives. The Chamber also assists businesses in grant development, assistance procurement, business services, and relocation assistance. Contact the Chamber at 518.563.1000.
Loan programs:
The Essex County IDA provides low cost loans to diverse businesses located in Essex County. Eligible projects include manufacturing, retail, transportation, utility, communications, agriculture, hospitality and professional service ventures.
Lake Champlain Lake George Regional Planning Board (LCLGRPB) Revolving Loan Fund
Small and medium sized businesses on the Adirondack Cost are eligible for up to $150K in below market rate loans through LCLGRPB’s Revolving Loan Fund. Potential uses include land acquisition & improvement, buildings, plant & equipment, and working capital for the start-up of new business or expansion of existing business.
North Country Economic Development Fund
Administered by the Development Authority of the North Country, this loan program is available to firms in the manufacturing, agri-business, clean/green bio-tech, assembly, wholesale distribution, and warehouse industries.
North Country Alliance Regional Revolving Loan Fund
The Regional Revolving Loan Fund provides loans to rural business and community development projects throughout the Adirondack Coast.
North Country Transformational Community Tourism Revolving Loan Program
This program provides loans to projects that enhance the quality and quantity of lodging in the region and support tourism-related facilities. Projects must attract more visitors or residents to the region.
North Country Value Added Agriculture Revolving Loan Program
Founded in 2014 with $1 million from the North Country Regional Economic Development Council, this loan fund seeks to improve productivity and crop yields and
increase the availability of value added agriculture products.
New York Business Development Corporation (NYBDC) Loans
NYBDC offers loans for manufacturing, wholesale, retail and services businesses. Funding ranges from $50,000 - $1,000,000.
Adirondack Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) Loan Program
AEDC offers diverse loan programs and can issue loans ranging in size from $500 to $50,000.