1-30: College Savings Month. Stressing the importance for parents to plan for their kids’ higher education. Banks, financial planners, providers of companies’ 401(k) plans and even the schools themselves can be part of promoting this. 

2-6: Great London Fire Anniversary. Everyone remembers Chicago, but this one, which started September 2, 1666, ushered in the present-day system of fire insurance. Good promo-opp for insurance firms, fire companies and home fire warning/fighting equipment makers and sellers. 

4: First Electric Lighting Anniversary. Today, 1882, several Manhattan offices were lit up with 400 “newfangled” light bulbs, courtesy of Thomas Edison. Power companies, electrical supply houses, bulb manufacturers and lamp stores can jump on this, among others. 

7: Anna Mary Moses: Birthday. Better known as Grandma Moses, who began painting at 78. Interesting promo concept for retirement communities, senior organizations, counseling services, etc.

9-15: International Housekeepers’ Week. Virtually any business that uses housekeeping or cleaning services can be involved. 

12: Lassie TV Premiere Anniversary. The famous collie first barked over the airwaves today, 1954. Unexpected approach for kennels, pet shops/superstores, dog-grooming centers, animal shelters, obedience schools.

18: U.S. Takes Out First Loan Anniversary. Alexander Hamilton secured $191,608 from two banks on this day, 1789. It was repaid in less than a year. Neat offbeat link-up for banks, credit unions, lending companies, etc.