Wednesday, January 8, 2020 | View in browser
New Business Registration Program
The City of Evanston is in the process of replacing the business licensing requirement with a new Evanston Business Registry effective January 1, 2020. All business enterprises operating in Evanston, including those licensed by the State of Illinois (e.g. medical practices, financial services, beauty salons, etc.), will be required to register their business.
Due to these upcoming changes, businesses currently licensed with the City do not need to renew their current license at this time.
Further communication on the new registration process, including registration instructions and 2020 invoices, will be sent via mail in early 2020.
 Evanston Shop Small Series: D & D Finer Foods
Help keep Evanston awesome by shopping local all year round. We spoke with Kosta Douvikas, owner of D & D Finer Foods, about his local grocery store located at 825 Noyes St. Check it out!
 What to Know About Adult Use Cannabis
On January 1, the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act was put into effect in Illinois. This act legalizes possession and use of cannabis for adults 21 and over. The City of Evanston is one of a few northern suburbs that is permitting the sale of adult use cannabis.
Watch the Evanston Police Department's video to learn about regulations included in the new state law and changes in our local ordinance. Visit cityofevanston.org/cannabis for more information.
The Celtic Knot Celebrates 15 Years
Congratulations to The Celtic Knot Public House for celebrating 15 years in business! Located at 626 Church St., this local favorite opened their doors January 10, 2005. Join them for a celebration on Sat., January 11 at 9:30 p.m. As a thank you to customers and friends, $15 dinner specials will be offered throughout January.
Sketchbook Brewing Hosts Game Night January 8
If you are a fan of games, head to Sketchbook Brewing Co. Wed., January 8 from 7 to 10 p.m. to join in the fun. Some games will be available, but feel free to bring your own.
TCC Verizon Store Ribbon Cutting January 9
Help celebrate the opening of the TCC Verizon store at 1706 Maple Ave. with a ribbon cutting Thurs., January 9 at 1 p.m.
2020 Year of Kindness and Nonviolent Action Kickoff Event January 26
This exciting initiative about the transformative power of the arts kicks off with a free event Sun., January 26 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center, 1655 Foster St. Reserve your spot and learn more about this initiative by visiting their website.
Free Sunday Parking to Return in 2020
Free Sunday parking at City meters and pay stations will return in the New Year as part of the City's 2020 Adopted Budget. In addition, new parking rates will take effect at paid on-street parking spaces and in the City garages.
For more information, please call/text 847-448-4311. For convenience, residents may simply dial 3-1-1 in Evanston.
 Snow Removal
The Economic Development Division would like to remind businesses and residents to keep sidewalks clear during the snow season.
Business owners (or the landlord) are required to shovel walkways and are encouraged to use salt, sand, or ice melt to keep sidewalks clear for visitors and customers. The City does not clear snow from sidewalks in business districts.
Thanks for working together to keep Evanston sidewalks safe and accessible during the cold weather.
Lending for Evanston and Northwestern Development (LEND)
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LEND is a student-run, microfinance organization that empowers entrepreneurs in Evanston to build businesses, create jobs, and reach financial self-sufficiency. Learn more about this organization and how it can help your business! |
Harper College and the Illinois Small Business Adminstration
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The Illinois Small Business Development Center at Harper College provides no-cost confidential consulting for small and home-based businesses. Schedule an appointment to receive expert help an advisor. The Illinois SBDC has also partnered with local firms in Law, Accounting/Tax and Prototyping to offer you free expert help |
SCORE at the Evanston Public Library
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Let a SCORE mentor work with you one-on-one to help with your business challenges. Register in advance at https://northchicago.score.org or by calling 224-372-3432. Mentoring is available on Wednesday afternoons and Thursday evenings at the Main Library, 1703 Orrington Ave., West Conference Room |
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