OUR MISSION
Downtown Springfield Inc. is a downtown business association and nationally accredited Main Street organization dedicated to creating and supporting a vibrant neighborhood through collaboration, creativity, and leadership. A better Downtown means a stronger Springfield and Sangamon County.

GET INVOLVED
DSI is dedicated to the revitalization of downtown Springfield and we invite you to join our robust volunteer corps to make a real impact! Here’s how you can contribute:
-
Supporting Our Small Shops: Join forces with local merchants to share best practices, tackle retail challenges, and host vibrant community events like Sidewalk Sales and Holiday Walks.
-
Filling the Vacancies: Collaborate with the City and stakeholders to rejuvenate underused spaces, attract new investment, and act as a crucial link between property owners, developers, and potential tenants.
-
Wayfinding, Placemaking & Beautification: Help transform downtown into a destination with exciting projects like the ARTification murals and the Old Capitol Farmers Market, creating spaces that attract and delight visitors.
-
Consumer Transportation: Work on initiatives to improve downtown navigation, reduce traffic and parking issues, and enhance the overall visitor experience, encouraging people to explore and enjoy our urban space.
-
Marketing the District: Spread the word about downtown’s dynamic developments and cultural offerings through social media, our website, and collaborations with media partners.
-
Planning the District: Play a part in shaping downtown into a thriving, walkable community centered around arts and culture.
By volunteering with DSI, you become part of a community-focused effort to enhance and celebrate our downtown district. This is your opportunity to contribute to a shared vision, connect with like-minded individuals, and leave a lasting impact on the heart of Springfield. Come join us and be a part of the transformation!
HOW WE ARE FUNDED
DSI is not a government entity but a 501(c)(3) non-profit association of downtown and area businesses who understand the benefits of a thriving downtown. Approximately 65% of our annual funding comes from businesses; 18% from individual supporters via fundraisers; and 17% from the City of Springfield. Some of our popular, ticketed fundraising events are the Friends of the Market Street Dinner, Art Alley, and our Annual Dinner celebration in January.
