For Immediate Release – October 26, 2026
State of Illinois Vendor Summit Returns to Springfield, Bringing Contracting Opportunities to Business Owners
SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) will host the fifth State of Illinois Vendor Summit on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Springfield, located at 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway in Springfield. The event will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will help business owners learn how to do business with State of Illinois agencies and State universities.
Under the theme “The Power of Five: Smarter Procurement Starts Here,” the summit will connect businesses with procurement experts, representatives from State of Illinois agencies, and potential business partners while providing practical information about contracting opportunities and the state procurement process.
“The State of Illinois Vendor Summit reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding access to State contracting opportunities and helping businesses understand how to compete for State business,” said Raven A. DeVaughn, CMS Director. “As we celebrate the fifth year of this event, we look forward to bringing businesses together in Springfield to build connections, share knowledge, and strengthen the partnerships that support a diverse and competitive vendor community.”
Attendees will hear from subject matter experts about upcoming contracting opportunities, navigating procurement requirements, and accessing resources to help businesses compete for State contracts. Panel discussions and breakout sessions will cover procurement topics, partnerships, and strategies for engaging with the State. The State of Illinois Vendor Summit is part of the State’s broader efforts to expand its vendor pool and promote equitable access to contracting opportunities.
For more information and to register for the 2026 State of Illinois Vendor Summit, visit: https://cms.illinois.gov/business/procurement/vendor-summit.html.
Members of the media planning to attend should RSVP to CMS.Press@illinois.gov by 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
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