and Economic Development Conference
37th Annual Rural Community and Economic Development Conference
The Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs will host the 37th Annual Rural Community and Economic Development Conference in conjunction with the Governor’s Rural Affairs Council chaired by Lt. Governor Julianna Stratton and Rural Partners on February 25 & 26, 2026 at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel, Springfield, Illinois.
Many factors, including residential preferences, advances in telecommunications, and the importance of a safe environment, suggest positive opportunities for rural areas. In polls, residents consistently express a preference for living in towns and rural environments when opportunities exist. Studies of community successes show that the impetus came from people or groups within the community rather than from an external agent. This conference highlights opportunities that may exist in your area and how local groups have transformed these assets into successful development strategies. Upgrading health care, working with youth to find local employment opportunities, enhancing housing, and transforming local attractions into profitable tourist adventures are just a few of the topics discussed.
The critical point is that the development effort and actions started with a local initiative. Come to the conference and see how you, working with others, can make them happen in your area.
Click here for the 2026 Informational Agenda!
Early Bird Rate
Early Bird Rate: $275.00 per person for registrations made by February 5, 2026. The registration rate after February 5 and for registrations at the door is $325.00 per person. The registration fee includes networking opportunities on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, lunch on Wednesday, a continental breakfast on Thursday, and breaks on both days.
No refunds will be issued after February 1, 2026. If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to substitute another participant by notifying Sandy Wittig (sk-wittig@wiu.edu).
Location
President Abraham Lincoln Hotel, 701 E. Adams, Springfield, Illinois, 62701; (217) 544-8800.
Lodging
Rooms at reduced rates have been set aside for conference participants at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel, Springfield, IL. Rates per night are $110.00. Room reservations are subject to availability; reservations must be made by February 3, 2026 to receive this rate. For reservations, call (217) 544-8800 or go online at https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/ilinstituteforruralaffairs2026/. Be sure to ask for the Rural Community Economic Development Conference rate.
Parking
The Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs will provide a free parking pass for those staying at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel. *Must park in the self-parking garage adjoined to the hotel.
Exhibitors
Exhibit space is available for $525.00, which includes one complimentary conference registration. Each booth consists of one six-foot table.
Refreshments are served in the exhibit area during the breaks to encourage attendees to visit your booth.
Questions?
Call Sandy Wittig at (309) 298-2637, or email SK-Wittig@wiu.edu.
Thank you to 2026 conference sponsors!
