ANCA launches new strategic plan for building shared prosperity

SARANAC LAKE | The Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA) has announced the launch of its new strategic plan, which sets the economic development nonprofit's course for the next three years. The plan, titled "Building Shared Prosperity," details ANCA's redefined mission, vision, main pillars of programmatic focus, and strategic goals — all aimed at supporting a strong regional economy that works for all who live, work and welcome others to the Adirondack North Country. The plan builds on ANCA's more than seven decades of economic impact across the region and reflects input from staff, board members, partners and community stakeholders. It is intended to guide the organization's programs, partnerships and investments through 2028. "This new plan was designed with a great deal of thought, discussion and visioning among our staff and board, and with input from hundreds of people we serve and partner with," said ANCA Executive Director Elizabeth Cooper. "We are excited to share it with our community and double down on the ambitious but achievable goals we set for the organization." Founded in 1955, ANCA is an independent nonprofit and regional hub that works across 14 counties in northern New York. Its targeted and responsive programs focus on strengthening small businesses and farms; advancing clean energy, energy efficiency and climate resilience opportunities for residents, businesses and communities; and building welcoming and belonging across the region. ANCA Deputy Director Zach Hobbs, who spearheaded the strategic planning process, said, "This plan is a dynamic, living document that we will revisit regularly and revise as regional needs change or arise. It identifies where we can have the greatest impact and how we can most effectively work alongside partners to build shared prosperity in our communities. We are grateful to all who contributed to this process. Their insight has been invaluable in shaping our goals and strategies for the next few years." Each of ANCA's five strategic goals — to provide accessible resource navigation and empowerment; cultivate collaborative regional development networks; generate and incubate economic and community solutions; build strong, stable and sustainable capacity; and shape and shift region-boosting narratives — is aimed at building shared prosperity for North Country residents, businesses and communities. Building on ANCA's ongoing work in four main program areas — local food systems, climate and energy, small businesses, and welcoming and belonging — staff will support farmers and food producers with market development and infrastructure initiatives; help households, businesses and municipalities reduce energy costs and build climate resilience; provide technical assistance and networking opportunities for small businesses; and work with businesses and organizations to foster a sense of safety and belonging in their communities. The release of the strategic plan comes as ANCA prepares for the 40th anniversary of its Adirondack Buyer Days wholesale gift show, set to take place in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. on March 23-24, 2026. The juried trade show connects artisan entrepreneurs with retailers looking purchase local, handmade products for their shops. ANCA will host its 2026 Climate & Energy Conference on May 7-8 in Lake Placid, N.Y. The event will convene local leaders, industry experts, educators, nonprofits, government agencies and other partners to share community-centered resources and solutions related to energy efficiency, clean energy and climate resilience. Other 2026 events include ANCA's annual Bike the Barns bicycle tour on September 26 and the Adirondack Diversity Initiative Symposium later this fall. These gatherings, as well as workshops, webinars, and presentations are updated on ANCA's website at www.adirondack.org/events. "ANCA's work has always been rooted in meaningful connections and collaboration," said ANCA Board President Kelly Chezum, who has served on the board of directors for nearly 15 years. "This strategic plan builds upon what we've learned together with our member partners, individuals from our communities, and the businesses and municipalities that welcome residents and visitors alike. These are all people ANCA aims to serve. The plan represents how we strive to improve and expand our programming to meet our Adirondack North Country community's direct needs now, and for years to come." The new strategic plan can be viewed on ANCA's website at www.adirondack.org or at bit.ly/ANCA-2026-plan.

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ANCA launches new strategic plan for building shared prosperity

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