2026 Illinois Main Street Conference

The annual Illinois Main Street State Conference is an event celebrating historic Main Streets, downtown districts, and neighborhood commercial areas. The conference — powered by dedicated professionals, volunteers, and civic leaderse — aims to bring together leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts to learn from industry experts on how to grow and sustain downtown districts as hubs of economic and social opportunity.

The 2026 Illinois Main Street State Conference will be November 18-20 in Springfield, Illinois, and will include educational breakout sessions, informational tours, and numerous networking opportunities. The conference is brought to you by Illinois Main Street, in partnership with Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, the Driehaus Foundation, Downtown Springfield, Inc., and the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Agenda

Day 1 | Two Special Educational Workshops | Registration | Welcome Reception

Day 2 | Registration with Breakfast | Keynote Speaker | Educational Workshops | Six Guided & Self-Guided Tours | Awards Dinner

Day 3 | Educational Workshops | Closing Experience

Visit https://www.ilmainstreet.org/2026conference for updates and a full schedule.

Attend the Illinois Main Street Conference if you:

• Are interested in a healthy, thriving commercial district;
• Are a current staff member, board member, or volunteer with a downtown or neighborhood commercial district revitalization program;
• Hold a position in city or county government in leadership, economic development, planning, tourism, or other related fields;
• Hold an elected position as an official in city, county, or state government;
• Work in a related industry such as non-profit development, community development, historic preservation and design;
• Want to learn about the combination community development, historic preservation, and economic development that creates lasting impact in downtowns.

What will you learn?

Engaging with experts in community revitalization, and with a special appearance by Illinois Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton*, you will learn about:

• The Main Street Approach, a national model for downtown development with a 45-year track record of success.
• In-depth topics such as: Levitt AMP and Transforming Your Downtown, Momentum for Downtown Success, Architectural History, Social Media Usage for your Organization, Farmers Markets, Vacancies, and Event Planning - and more!
• Find time to meet with Illinois Main Street staff on the onboarding and application process for your community to become a member of the Illinois Main Street program.

*Scheduling subject to availability

Become an Illinois Main Street member and save!

Revitalization works better with a group of active participants in your community. Illinois Main Street Members receive one (1) complimentary registration per community and will receive a promo code in advance. Other IMS Members receive 50% off of the General Admission price.

Join the IMS Network to receive ticket discounts, invitations to special events, educational trainings, and so much more throughout the year!

Contact Joi Austin, Director of Illinois Main Street, by email at jaustin@mainstreet.org to learn more.

Hotel Accommodations & Rates

President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Address: 701 E Adams St, Springfield, IL 62701

Phone: (217) 544-8800

Web Address for Booking: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/illinoismainstreetconference/ - Limited Availability

No shuttle provided