About this Event
The annual Illinois Main Street State Conference is a two-day event celebrating historic Main Streets, downtown districts and neighborhood commercial areas essential to thriving communities.
Powered by dedicated professionals, volunteers, and civic leaders, the conference 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 2024 Illinois Main Street State Conference will be November 12-14 in Batavia and will include general sessions, concurrent breakout sessions, informational tours, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall. The conference is brought to you by Illinois Main Street, in partnership with Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, the Driehaus Foundation, and Batavia MainStreet.
Day 1 | Evening Welcome Reception
Day 2 | Education, Workshops and Awards
Day 3 | Education & Closing Project
Visit ilmainstreet.org for conference updates and full schedule.
- 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.
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 40 year track record of success.
- In-depth topics such as: Downtown Development Finance; Business Recruitment, Retention and Expansion; Importance of Public Arts; Equitable Community Engagement; Creating a Cultural Destination 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.
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.
Join the IMS Network to receive ticket discounts, invitations to special events, educational trainings, and so much more throughout the year!
Contact Erik Reader, Director of Illinois Main Street by email at [email protected] to learn more.
Comfort Inn & Suites
1555 E. Fabyan Parkway
Geneva, IL 60134
Phone: (630) 208-8811
Website: www.comfortinngeneva.com
Rates: (Must mention Batavia MainStreet for block rate)
Standard $119.99 | Suite $129.99
Shuttle available from hotel
My Place Hotel
1000 Kilbery Lane
North Aurora, IL 60542
Phone: (630) 256-8485
Website: www.myplacehotels.com/locations/my-place-hotel-north-aurora-il
Rates: (Must mention Batavia MainStreet for block rate by November 1st to receive reduced rate)
Single Queen $100 | Double Queen $105
No shuttle provided
VENUES
Tuesday Night Welcome Reception
Sturdy Shelter Brewing
10 Shumway Ave, Batavia, IL 60510
Wednesday & Thursday Opening Keynote Presentation & Breakout Sessions
Batavia Public Library
10 S Batavia Ave, Batavia, IL 60510
Opening Keynote location
Batavia City Hall
100 N Island Ave, Batavia, IL 60510
The Comedy Vault
18 E Wilson St, Batavia, IL 60510
Loading Dock
150 1st St, Batavia, IL 60510
Wednesday Evening Awards Ceremony & Reception
Revelry 675
675 S River St, Batavia, IL 60510
Thursday Closing Project Location
Grainology Brewstillery
131 Flinn St Ste C, Batavia, IL 60510
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Downtown Batavia, 10 S Batavia Ave, Batavia, United States
USD 81.88 to USD 161.90
