Thursday, January 28, 2021 | View in browser
News and Events
 Evanston moves to Tier 1 Mitigations
Due to recent progress in the fight against COVID-19, Evanston and Region 10 are now operating under Illinois' Tier 1 mitigations—which includes limited indoor dining service at a lesser of 25% capacity or 25 people with a 4 person table limit. Recreation, fitness centers, and outdoor activities can now operate under Phase 4 guidelines. To keep easing restrictions, please continue to follow all public health guidance, including wearing a mask, social distancing and washing your hands.
 Free product photo session for businesses
Calling all Evanston shops, salons and studios! Jessie Hearn Photography is offering one free product photo to include on your “Home of the…” poster for your store front window! Find additional information and sign up here.
Cannabis licensing application writing class
This 10 week course, starting February 1, will provide an in-depth overview of the cannabis licensing application process, including information on the laws, processes, and best practices for successfully completing a cannabis licensing application in IL (and other states). The class will be limited to 50 participants and the first 50 people to sign up and demonstrate social equity eligibility receive priority. Apply here.
 Evanston Winter Games
The first-ever Evanston Winter Games are launching February 1! Download the free Eventzee app to explore winter activities throughout the city, win prizes, and support local businesses. Each week a winner will receive a gift card to Gearhead Outfitters located in downtown Evanston. Visit evanstonwintergames.com to learn more, access the Eventzee app, and go for the gold!
 Follow your heart on Central Street this February
Central Street invites you to Follow Your Heart and share the love this February with local businesses all month long! Bring a heart decoration to a local business and receive a "passport" to enjoy 10% off at all participating businesses in February.
 Get cozy in Evanston this winter with Hygge Fest!
Get HYGGE with Downtown Evanston throughout January and February! Pronounced "hue-gah," this Danish expression is an attitude towards life that emphasizes finding joy in everyday moments. Rather than drudge through the winter, hygge is about celebrating coziness, warmth and family, as well as practicing mindfulness. Find more information on upcoming events in Downtown Evanston and the Main-Dempster Mile.
 Winter Wonderland at Canal Shores
Canal Shores, Downtown Evanston and Evanston Made invite the public to create an outdoor art experience across 18 holes with a Nature Art Exhibit! During the month of February, the public is invited to create visual treasures throughout the golf course to surprise and delight visitors. Projects can range from the simplest activities that children can produce to thought provoking dioramas created by professional artists. Find additional information here.
 Bookends & Beginnings opens new branch
Congratulations to Evanston bookstore Bookends & Beginnings on opening their new branch, a gift and stationery boutique located at 1716 Sherman Ave. So great to see a small, independent business not only surviving, but expanding, during these challenging times caused by COVID. Check out their story and make sure to stop by their new location!
 'Navigating the Job Search' virtual series
The Evanston Public Library (EPL) is joining other local libraries in bringing the Navigating the Job Search virtual series to those seeking employment. Attendees will learn skills centered around resumes and cover letters, networking through services such as LinkedIn, and virtual interviewing.
Registration is required for the free upcoming programs and can be found on the events calendar at epl.org or at the links provided below. The sessions will be hosted on the Skokie Public Library’s Zoom channel.
The Evanston Public Library is committed to helping residents who are seeking employment, developing job skills or changing professions. More information can be found at epl.org/jobseekers.
SBA Guide to Calculate Max Loan Amount for First Draw PPP Loans
The Small Business Administration (SBA), in consultation with the Department of the Treasury, is providing this updated guidance to assist businesses in calculating their payroll costs (and the relevant documentation that is required to support each set of calculations) for purposes of determining the maximum amount of a First Draw Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for each type of business.
Amber Grant Program for Women
WomensNet founded the Amber Grant Foundation in 1998. The Foundation was set up with one goal in mind: to honor the memory of a very special young woman, Amber Wigdahl, who died at just 19 years old — before realizing her business dreams. Today, WomensNet carries on that tradition, giving away at least $10,000 every month in Amber Grant money. Apply here.
Nolet Family Relief Program for Food and Beverage Industry workers
This program is providing relief in the form of eVouchers to help supplement groceries and other much needed essentials for food and beverage hospitality currently out of work on a first-come, first-served basis. Find eligibility requirements and application here.
LEND offering zero interest small business loans
Lending for Evanston and Northwestern Development (LEND), a student-run, microfinance organization, is providing zero percent interest loans to small businesses in Evanston. Visit their website for the application and to learn more about their lending process.
New Comast RISE program to help small business
The new Comcast RISE initiative is designed to strengthen small independent Black and underrepresented group-owned businesses hit hard by COVID-19 by providing grants, marketing and technology upgrades (including media campaigns and connectivity), computer and voice equipment, and free marketing insights. Learn more about the resources offered through this program here.
ComEd Small Business Assistance Program
The Small Business Assistance Program provides eligible small business customers, whose service has not been disconnected, with a one-time grant equal to 30% of their total ComEd balance (up to $1,000) that will be applied to the past due balance and the remaining balance can be spread over a payment plan of up to six months.
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