2025 Illinois Main Street Conference
November 12-14, 2025
Join statewide leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts to learn from industry experts on how to grow and sustain downtown districts as hubs of economic and social opportunity.
This year’s conference will be held November 12-14th in Dixon 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 Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, the Driehaus Foundation, and Dixon Chamber of Commerce & Main Street.
Who should attend?
If you 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.
FAQs
-
No. We welcome professionals from all different types of organizations. If you are a volunteer or serve on a board or committee for a revitalization effort, we would love to have you attend!
-
You can learn more about Main Street Approach, a national model for downtown development with a 45-year track record of success.
We also cover topics such as: historic preservation, real estate development, small business assistance, entrepreneurial ecosystem building, destination marketing, community engagement techniques, and creative placemaking projects.
-
The conference takes place at various venues throughout downtown and also includes walking tours, offsite networking events, and a hands-on project to conclude the event.
-
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 of $150.
-
Be part of Illinois’ only downtown revitalization event, where civic leaders, developers, small business owners, preservationists, and placemaking professionals come together to learn, connect, and act. Your sponsorship fuels the inspiration and big ideas that lead to real-world projects. Partnering with Illinois Main Street means more than placing a logo on a program—it means becoming a driving force for vibrant downtowns, successful small businesses, and thriving communities across Illinois.
Learn more about Sponsorship Opportunities
Conference Agenda At-A-Glance
Wednesday, November 12th
Conference Registration Opens
5:00 - 8:00 PM
Northwest Territory Historic Center
Welcome Reception
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Begin the conference with an evening of conversation and connection with community revitalization leaders from across the state. Explore the museum to learn more about Dixon history.
Northwest Territory Historic Center
Thursday, November 13th
Morning Registration Opens
8:00 - 11:00 AM
Dixon Theater
Opening Keynote
9:00 - 10:00 AM
Hear opening remarks and get some an inspirational speaker to kickoff the conference.
Dixon Theater
Breakout Sessions
10:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Choose from eight different concurrent learning sessions throughout downtown Dixon.
Tours & Roundtables
2:30 - 4:00 PM
Discover Dixon on a Historic & Architecture Tour or Arts & Culture Tour. Join a regional roundtable conversation.
Cocktail Hour & Awards Reception
5:00 - 8:00 PM
Celebrate success within downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts across the state.
Dixon Elks Lodge
Friday, November 14th
IL DCEO Statewide Updates
8:00 - 9:00 AM
Join DCEO to learn about projects and programs from across the state.
Breakout Sessions
9:30 - 10:30 AM
Choose from four different concurrent sessions throughout downtown Dixon.
Better Block Dixon
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
This hands-on experience will give conference goers an opportunity to bring a DIY approach to downtown Dixon.
Sponsors & Supporters
Discover Dixon!
Tucked away in Northwest Illinois, Dixon is more than a charming small town off I-88. It’s the hug that you need. So come stay, live, and explore our Rock River adventures, rich Reagan history, thriving art scene, and more! There’s something here for everyone.
Dixon, Illinois, is a vibrant business community of startups, retail shops, restaurants, mid-size companies, and industrial parks. Whether you’re here to visit, work, or live, these businesses welcome you with a friendly smile and small-town pride. Help us support them by shopping local today.
Located halfway between the Quad Cities and Chicago, Dixon, Illinois gives you access to all the perks of city living with that laid-back, small-town feel. That makes it a great place to relocate to, work, stay, or spend the day.
As a hybrid organization, Dixon Chamber & Main Street (Discover Dixon) works to grow Dixon by advocating for our business members and giving them a voice in local decision-making. We also organize and host community events to enhance the quality of life for the people and businesses in Dixon and the surrounding areas. The City of Dixon also contracts us to promote Dixon as a place to visit. Through this partnership we’ve enhanced Dixon’s brand presence throughout the Northern Illinois area while also promoting the cultural, economic, and cultural aspects of our region.
Our Mission
For the betterment and growth of Dixon, the Dixon Chamber of Commerce & Main Street advocates for our businesses, community, and visitors by promoting economic development, cultural programs, civic engagement, and historic preservation.
Learn more and visit DiscoverDixon.com.
