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Economic and Community Development

Creating impactful economic opportunities

Open for Business

The goal of Northwestern University is to be a catalyst for economic growth and sustainability through strategic partnerships. We aim to maximize our impact as Evanston’s economic anchor.

Not only does this program connect Evanston residents with employment opportunities within the community, it builds a network of qualified, talented workers to fill these positions for years to come.”

Former Evanston Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl on the Northwestern/Evanston Skilled Trades Training Program

Featured Partnerships

Innovation Incubator

The Garage at Northwestern is a hub where ideas, not companies, are built. There’s a focus on a unique educational experience, where the right idea could lead to a startup that changes the world.

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Good Neighbor Fund

Through the Good Neighbor Fund, Northwestern University contributes $1 million annually to the City of Evansotn for support to paramedic services, job training programs and park improvementsand, and other services and projects. 
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Evanston MashUp

Held annually on the University’s beach, the MashUp is a networking mixer hosted by Northwestern, the City of Evanston, the Evanston Chamber of Commerce and other business partners.

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Skilled Trades Training

Under the Northwestern/Evanston Skilled Trades Training Program, the University has committed to hiring Evanston residents to participate in paid training programs in facilities management.

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Work with us.

Learn how Northwestern can help your business grow.

Local Business Opportunities