Tompkins Connect was founded in 2011 by local business leaders and community members who were inspired to create an organization that would engage the young professional population in Ithaca and Tompkins County. Through a joint venture of the Tompkins Chamber, The United Way of Tompkins County, generous local sponsors, and several young and ambitious leaders, Tompkins Connect was born.

Since then, we have continued to grow our membership and currently have over 800 members. These young professionals donate their time to volunteer within and engage with the community. Tompkins Connect provides our members with leaderships skills and opportunities to meet other professionals in the Ithaca area.  

Ithaca is often considered a transient city however, for most of us Ithaca is Home. Our members have met our partners and spouses here, bought homes, run for positions in local government, and started businesses. We choose to stay here because we believe in the wonderful opportunities and experiences Ithaca has to offer.