Adam Friedman

Adam Friedman is a seasoned leader in economic development and nonprofit management, known for his ability to build organizations from the ground up. His expertise in organizational development and policy advocacy makes him a key force behind Mechanism's mission to foster collaboration and innovation in urban manufacturing.

Adam has been instrumental in launching and leading impactful organizations, including the Garment Industry Development Corporation and the New York Industrial Retention Network, both of which did groundbreaking work in zoning policy, marketing assistance and even a study of the childcare needs of the garment industry which helped establish a childcare center for garment workers in Chinatown. He currently serves on the Boards of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the Industrial Development Agency.

As a co-founder of the Mechanism, Adam sought to move away from “smokestack chasing” which led cities to compete with each other and to build a new model which elevated the practice of economic development so that all cities can thrive. Mechanism seeks to break down silos in economic development, creating a network where best practices, research, and professional support could be openly shared. He takes great pride in fostering this cooperative approach, ensuring that Mechanism remains a hub for the exchange of knowledge and collective impact.

Outside of his professional work, Adam enjoys biking, yoga, and espionage novels by Walter Mosley and Alan Furst. He is an amateur chef and is planning on creating a Mechanism cookbook featuring the network's favorite recipes.