Economic Development

The City of Evanston's economic development  mission is to help local businesses grow the Evanston economy as we strive to create the most livable city in America. This is accomplished through building relationships with our local business owners, economic development partners including our Special Service Areas, the Chamber of Commerce, and merchant district associations.  

The economic development work plan recommends a focus on Quality of Place, Business District Vitality, Business Attraction & Retention, and implementation of Business District plans. Find more information about our current Business District planning efforts below.

Enjoy Evanston emerged from the Evanston Thrives Retail Action Plan (see more below). One of the top wish list items we heard from residents and visitors was an easy-to-navigate information hub that listed businesses and offerings in all of our business districts. This reinforced what we heard from local business owners–a place to feature their business and feel connected to the community as a whole. We listened, we designed, and we coordinated to bring you EnjoyEvanston.com!

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The Evanston Thrives Retail District Action Plan is a highly focused business district market analysis to improve the quality and mix of retail, food, and entertainment offerings in Evanston’s 9 business districts. Thousands of survey responses, dozens of merchant group and community meetings, and several City Council and Committee work planning sessions helped shape the final plan. The City Council adopted the plan in 2023 and allocated $3M of funding for its implementation. Learn more.