The City of Evanston will launch a new COVID-19 Small Business Assistance program on Tuesday, September 1 to help provide financial relief and technical support to Evanston businesses. The program includes a COVID-19 Micro-Enterprise Grant, a “Going Digital” webinar series, and small business mentorship.

Businesses are encouraged to join a kick-off webinar and Q&A session on Tuesday, September 1 at noon to learn more about this program.

COVID-19 Micro-Enterprise Grant

The City of Evanston COVID-19 Micro-Enterprise Grant will provide one-time funding of up to $2,500 per business to aid in their recovery from the COVID-19 public health crisis. 

Eligibility Requirements

  • Business must have experienced a financial loss due to COVID-19
  • Business must be a for-profit business located within the City of Evanston (including home-based), and have been in existence on or before March 1, 2020
  • Business owner’s family income is projected to be below 80 percent of the average median income (AMI)
  • Business has five or fewer employees on their payroll including owner(s)

Income-eligible businesses should apply between September 1 and September 15. Additional information on eligibility requirements and the application process can be found at evanstonedge.com/covid-19-small-business-program.

“Going Digital” Webinar Series

In collaboration with local digital experts, the City of Evanston is launching a series of weekly webinars to provide local businesses with insights on how to use digital tools to help boost their online presence. These sessions will provide an opportunity to learn about various digital topics, ask questions to industry experts, and network with other local businesses. 

Webinar Schedule

The webinars are free, however registration is required.

Small Business Mentorship 

Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management has partnered with the City of Evanston to provide strategic consulting support to local business owners. Kellogg alumni and students are offering pro bono consulting to Evanston business owners in high-demand areas, including digital marketing and social media, public relations, financial planning and analysis, and human resources management.

Businesses can reach out to skilled mentors via the StartUpTree platform at evanstonnu.startuptree.co to see new opportunities, find ways to strengthen their online presence, or find efficiencies to help weather the COVID-19 crisis. 

For more information, visit evanstonedge.com/covid-19-small-business-program.