The synthesis and characterization of two new complexes (IPr)Pd(acac)(2) (1) and (IPr)Pd(acac)CI (2) (IPr=(N,N'-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazol)-2-ylidene, acac = acetylacetonate) are described. Complex 2 can be prepared in a one-pot protocol in high yield. A study detailing the versatility of 2 to effectively catalyze a series of cross-coupling reactions is discussed. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.