OUR MISSION
DSI creates a vibrant and connected community to enrich the downtown experience for residents, businesses, and visitors.

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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Marketing the District: Spread the word about downtown’s dynamic developments and cultural offerings through social media, our website, and collaborations with media partners.
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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)(6) 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.
