The reaction of ethyl3-(o-trifluoroacetamidoaryl)-1-propargylic carbonates with primary or secondary amines in the presence of Pd 2 (dba) 3 , dppf, and carbon monoxide in THF at 80 °C provides ready access to free-NH indole 2-acetamides. The reaction can be applied to the synthesis of free-NH indole 2-acetic acid methyl esters.