← PrioritiesIssue 02
SMALL + INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES
A city environment where independent restaurants, shops, studios, startups and neighborhood businesses can thrive.
The issue
Independent businesses carry the character of Evanston, and too often the path to opening and staying open is harder than it needs to be.
Why George is focusing on it
Small businesses are where local culture and local jobs actually live.
Proposals to explore
- 01Easier communication between entrepreneurs and city government
- 02Support for locally owned businesses
- 03Pop-up and temporary retail opportunities
- 04Better use of vacant storefronts
- 05Partnerships between businesses and local creators
- 06Downtown and neighborhood activation
Potential implementation
Areas to explore with business owners, chambers and city staff.
Updates
Updates will be posted here as this proposal develops.