α-Aminoamides as ligands in Goldberg amidations

α-Aminoamides are shown to be useful as ligands in Goldberg amidations. A number of α-aminoamides are examined and the importance of substitution on the α-aminoamides is explored. Acetamide is focused on as the nucleophilic coupling partner due to its low cost, stability and convenience as a protecting group. The initial substrate scope for these catalysts is explored and includes electronically activated and deactivated aryl bromides, however o-substituted aryl bromides are problematic.