base‐promoted nucleophilic addition of arylacetonitriles to terminal alkynes has been described for the first time, providing a simple and straightforward protocol for the synthesis of a range of structurally diverse (Z)‐2,3‐disubstituted acrylonitriles in moderate to excellent yields. Of particular note, the transition metal‐free carbon‐carbon double bond forming reaction is regio‐ and stereoselective under
Catalytic α-olefination of nitriles using primary alcohols, via dehydrogenative coupling of alcohols with nitriles, is presented. The reaction is catalyzed by a pincer complex of an earth-abundant metal (manganese), in the absence of any additives, base, or hydrogen acceptor, liberating dihydrogen and water as the only byproducts.