THE TRANSITION
For over three decades, Downtown Springfield, Inc. (DSI) has worked to support and strengthen the heart of our city. As the landscape of downtown has shifted due to cultural trends, societal changes, and the movement of state agencies, the needs of our community have evolved. DSI is transforming to meet those needs and we need your support to make this happen.
Downtown is changing - and so are we.
We’re proud to announce our transition from a membership-based 501(c)(6) organization to a community-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofit. This change allows us to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and better serve the entire downtown and our community’s residents.
Why This Matters
For years, DSI has been a catalyst for downtown growth. Our programs have supported small businesses, beautified public spaces, and created experiences that connect people to place. But as Springfield’s needs have changed—through cultural shifts, the relocation of state agencies, and new patterns of engagement—so too must our approach.
This shift is more than structural, it’s strategic. By becoming a 501(c)(3), we are embracing a broader mission: to serve the entire downtown district through inclusive, community-driven initiatives. We are moving from member-only services to programs that benefit everyone. This transition empowers us to pursue grants, forge new partnerships, and invite all residents and visitors to be part of downtown’s story.
Furthermore, this change positions DSI to lead with purpose, to activate the Downtown Master Plan, and to build a vibrant, resilient city core rooted in Arts, Culture, and Entertainment (ACE). And it opens the door for individuals and private sector partners to make tax-deductible contributions that directly support downtown’s revitalization. Your financial support is vital. With your help, we can continue to shape a downtown that feeds both body and soul.
What's Ahead
We’re updating existing programs and launching new ones that reflect the changing character of downtown Springfield. From how people live and work to how they gather and grow, this transition is about more than structure—it’s about momentum. We’ll be sharing updates, hosting conversations, and inviting input from residents, businesses, and partners. Transparency and collaboration will guide us every step of the way.
Let’s Build the Future Together
We believe in downtown Springfield’s potential—and we know you do too. Your support has helped shape our community, and together, we can take it even further. We ask that you let us continue to connect with you to share our efforts and goals in this new direction forward. We hope you see the value in the impact we’ve made on our downtown community and choose to support us into the future.
Stay connected. Get involved. Be part of the transformation by making a financial contribution of any size to Downtown Springfield.
SP.A.C.E.
Springfield Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
A New Identity for Downtown
Downtown Springfield, Inc. (DSI), a Main Street America–accredited organization, is proud to announce its transition from a business membership-based to a community-focused tax-exempt organization. This shift will focus on giving downtown identity and purpose, a sense of place, by supporting the heart of Springfield as a vibrant center for Arts, Culture, and Entertainment (ACE). Your support for our work is vital.
Springfield Arts, Culture, & Entertainment
SP.A.C.E. adds to downtown as a living canvas.
New identity. New ideas. New partners. New beauty.
Defining our Future Through Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
For too long, downtown Springfield has been viewed through the lens of its past. But today, it’s time to recognize what it truly is: the foundation of a vibrant Arts, Culture, and Entertainment (ACE) district.
This identity is not just aspirational, it’s grounded in research and community.
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Current Asset Mapping of Downtown
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Downtown Master Plan (2025)
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Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (2021)
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SDAT (2012)
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R/UDAT (2002)
Downtown exists with a high concentration of already existing ACE institutions, businesses, and events within a walkable area. These events and venues cater to community residents like you.
DSI’s Role in Economic Revitalization
DSI’s programming already supports arts, culture, and entertainment as a strategy for economic growth!
Old State Capitol Farmers Market
Celebrates Midwestern agricultural heritage and connects local farmers with the community residents.
Friends of the Market Street Dinner & Brunch
Supports and celebrates the local culinary businesses and honors Springfield’s food culture.
Art Alley
Activates and beautifies downtown with public art from students and community members.
Holiday Walks
A family friendly and free seasonal series that promotes our community’s artisans and local retailers.
Discover Downtown
Engages young adults in shaping their community and future of downtown.
Banner Program
Enhances wayfinding and beautification through creative placemaking.
Momentum on Main Street
Facilitates collaboration among business owners, developers, and entrepreneurs.
DRIVE Grants (Isringhausen Imports)
Demonstrates the impact of investing in small business growth.
ACE
Information arriving November 2025.
BEAUTIFICATION
Information arriving November 2025.
Looking Ahead
All current programs will continue, but with a stronger focus on arts, culture, and entertainment as the foundation for downtown’s economic vitality and vibrancy. This identity will guide our efforts to build a more dynamic, inclusive, and resilient downtown. Your support for our work is essential.
Join Us in Shaping Downtown’s Future
If you believe in the power of arts, culture, and entertainment to transform our city, we invite you to support DSI and engage with your community. Together, we can create a downtown that reflects the creativity, diversity, and spirit of Springfield.
Stay connected. Get involved. Be part of the transformation by making a financial contribution of any size to Downtown Springfield.
BEAUTIFICATION
Reimagining Downtown Springfield: A Canvas of Community and Creativity
Downtown Springfield, Inc. (DSI) is leading a bold transformation of Springfield’s historic downtown, turning it into a vibrant, walkable, and culturally rich destination. Through a dynamic mix of beautification, creative placemaking, wayfinding, and public art, DSI is breathing new life into the heart of the city and your financial support is essential to continue this vital work.
ARTification: Murals That Tell Our Story
DSI’s ARTification mural program celebrates Springfield’s creativity, adding color and character to the urban landscape. By commissioning local artists, DSI ensures each mural reflects the spirit of the city, inviting community members and visitors alike to explore and connect.
Banner Program: Navigating with Style
In collaboration with Ace Sign Company, DSI’s downtown banner program combines function with flair.
These vibrant banners invite and guide pedestrians and drivers while promoting local events, cultural
institutions, and seasonal themes. Banners unify the streetscape and reinforce downtown Springfield’s
identity as a lively, welcoming place to be.
Springfield Arts, Culture, & Entertainment
SP.A.C.E. adds to downtown as a living canvas.
New identity. New ideas. New partners. New beauty.
Art Alley: A Hidden Gem
Tucked between buildings, Art Alley is a creative corridor that’s become a hub for public art and community gatherings. New opportunities are coming to fruition that will exemplify how overlooked areas can be transformed into cultural assets—sparking engagement, curiosity, and economic vitality.
Beautification & Placemaking: Spaces That Inspire
DSI’s placemaking philosophy is all about creating a sense of belonging, purpose, and identity with sights that delight and invite. Whether it’s a new mural or vibrant banners, downtown is becoming a place to linger, connect, and return.
More Than Decoration—It’s Transformation
We will continue to connect with you to share our efforts in adding vibrancy to downtown. We hope you see the value in the impact we’ve made on our downtown community and choose to support us now and in the future.
INVESTING IN YOUTH
A Strategic Imperative for Springfield
Downtown Springfield Inc. (DSI) recognizes the power of young people and actively engages them through creative programs that energize downtown and strengthen community ties. Youth engagement isn’t just a feel-good initiative; it’s a strategic necessity. Young people are the future stewards of Springfield’s cultural, economic, and civic life. They bring fresh energy, innovative ideas, and digital presence that lights the way for downtown’s path into tomorrow. DSI’s continued work with our community’s youth depends on your financial support of our work.
Discover Downtown: Youth Ambassadors for Downtown Springfield
Launched in 2021 as Rep the City and sponsored by Security Bank, Discover Downtown is DSI’s flagship youth engagement initiative. For multiple times each year, young adults are encouraged to come together to explore and promote downtown Springfield by sharing curated experiences and journeys. Blending youth engagement and community storytelling, this experience builds future advocates for revitalization and civic pride.
Arts & Civic Engagement
DSI connects our youth with downtown throughout the year. Art Alley develops young artists’ talents, giving youth experience through mentorship while beautifying downtown. Holiday Walks connects local businesses and students by painting festive storefront windows. Downtown Cleanup Days support local National Honor Society students giving them opportunities to fulfill volunteer service hours while experiencing their community downtown. By engaging our community youth, we’re cultivating a pipeline of future leaders, volunteers, and advocates who feel a genuine sense of ownership in their community.
Join Us in Building the Future
If you believe in the power of youth to shape Springfield’s future, we invite you to financially support DSI’s youth programming and mission. Together, we can make lasting investments in our city’s heart—by empowering the next generation to lead, create, and thrive. Support Downtown Springfield Inc. work with youth through your generous financial contribution.
BUSINESS RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
Downtown Springfield Inc. Drives Downtown Vitality
Through collaborative, community-led efforts, Downtown Springfield Inc. (DSI) plays a vital role in attracting and supporting local businesses in the heart of Springfield. Our initiatives create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and ensure long-term sustainability for downtown businesses.
Your support is essential to continue this momentum and fuel economic growth in Springfield’s core.
Momentum on Main: Sparking Entrepreneurial Growth
Launched in 2021, Momentum on Main was designed to channel post-COVID recovery energy into new brick-and-mortar ventures. With guidance from a dedicated committee of stakeholders and board members, the program helped launch 12 new businesses downtown.
In 2025, DSI has revived this successful initiative, connecting a new wave of entrepreneurs, developers, and building owners with the tools and knowledge they need to overcome challenges and invest in downtown Springfield.
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Isringhausen DRIVE Grant: Fueling Local Business
A longtime supporter of downtown, Isringhausen partnered with DSI in 2022 to launch the DRIVE Grant. This program complements Momentum on Main by offering direct financial support to help local entrepreneurs open new businesses.
The DRIVE Grant is a powerful example of DSI’s commitment to economic growth and cultural vibrancy.
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BOOMS: Building Opportunities on Main Street
DSI is activating the Downtown Master Plan by tackling vacancies and unlocking potential. In partnership with Crawford, Murphy & Tilly and the United Way Day of Action, DSI launched BOOMS—a comprehensive data platform that tracks vacancies from the ground floor up.
While the work may not always be visible, it’s a critical tool for driving progress and revitalization.
Join Us in Shaping Springfield’s Future
These programs are more than initiatives—they’re building blocks of a thriving downtown. If you believe in a vibrant, resilient Springfield, we invite you to support DSI and help us continue this transformative work.
Springfield Arts, Culture, & Entertainment
SP.A.C.E. adds to downtown as a living canvas.
New identity. New ideas. New partners. New beauty.
FOSTERING A VIBRANT FOOD SCENE
For 35 years, DSI has brought the Old Capitol Farmers Market, held twice weekly, to downtown Springfield. Featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods from regional farmers and vendors, the market is supported by partners like the Illinois Stewardship Alliance and Springfield Area Arts Council, with sponsorship from HSHS St. John’s Hospital. It builds direct relationships between consumers, farmers and producers while elevating awareness of local food systems.
Your financial support of Downtown Springfield Inc allows us to bring the beloved Market to community residents each year.
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Friends of the Farmers Market Street Brunch and Dinner
In 2025, DSI expanded its culinary celebration with the inaugural Friends of the Market Street Brunch, held at Union Square Park. This daytime counterpart to the dinner event featured farm-to-table dishes from local favorites like Arrowroot Coffee Co., Bloom Wine Bar, and Whimsy Tea Company. Sponsored by community pillars such as HSHS St. John’s and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the brunch offered a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that honored Springfield’s agricultural roots while supporting its creative economy.
From the beloved Old Capitol Farmers Market to the immersive Friends of the Market Street Dinner, DSI curates experiences that bring residents and visitors together around food, music, and shared stories. These events aren’t just festive, they’re strategic. They spotlight small businesses, elevate local chefs and artisans, and create foot traffic that supports downtown commerce.
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We ask that you continue to connect with and support DSI in its mission to revitalize downtown through arts, culture, and entertainment. Together, we can nourish a downtown that feeds both body and soul.
Your generous financial support of Downtown Springfield Inc. allows us to continue the Market each year.
UPDATE
Information arriving December 2025.
WHAT'S NEXT
Information arriving December 2025.