Evanston’s economic strategy has been laid out in a series of public documents over the past decade or so. Some are plans adopted by the city, some are academic studies, and some are annual filings. This guide describes the main ones.
Economic development plans
The city released an economic development plan in March 2012, meant to apply from 2012 to 2014. Its two main goals, according to the Daily Northwestern, were creating jobs and growing the city’s revenue base. A 2013 work plan followed with added targets such as retaining retail and workforce development. The department’s more recent work plan centers on quality of place, business district vitality, business attraction and retention, and carrying out district plans.
The Kellogg study of tax increment financing
In December 2012, students in a Northwestern Kellogg real estate course presented an analysis of how Evanston had used tax increment financing, or TIF, and of proposed expansions. Their recommendations included lining up TIF plans with the city’s overall economic development plan and using TIF to catalyze market demand rather than create it. The city posted the presentation on its TIF page.
TIF districts direct growth in property tax revenue within a defined area toward improvements there. The city’s page lists the active districts, including TIF No. 9, known as Five-Fifths, and says annual TIF reports can be requested from economic development staff. Use of TIF money has drawn scrutiny; the Daily Northwestern reported in April 2026 that the newest district was recommended to stay open amid further review.
Evanston Inventure and the 2012 summit
Evanston Inventure was a long-running partnership of the city, Northwestern and other local institutions. The city announced its end on April 4, 2018, after more than 30 years. The city also held an economic development summit in the spring of 2012, which the Daily Northwestern covered at the time.
Procurement seminar
In February 2013 the city and several large local institutions held a seminar called Evanston Procurement 101, designed to show local businesses and contractors how to sell to six of Evanston’s large entities.
Evanston Thrives
The newest planning product is Evanston Thrives, a retail district action plan built on community engagement and a market analysis of the business districts, with the aim of improving retail, food and entertainment offerings. The city’s Economic Development Committee and the districts prioritized its recommended actions in 2023.
The city’s business pages also carry a guide to opening or expanding a company, along with information on grants and available properties.
Sources: City of Evanston business and TIF pages; Daily Northwestern.