Springfield-Sangamon County Transportation HUB Café/Retail Space Request for Proposals (RFP)
Sangamon County is seeking proposals from qualified vendors interested in operating a café and grab-and-go retail space inside the new Springfield-Sangamon County Transportation HUB, planned to open in fall 2027. The county is looking for a creative operator, either an individual business or a partnership, that can provide food and beverage service, offer retail items and create opportunities for local entrepreneurs in this high-visibility new downtown space. Potential support for rent and utilities may be available, and the café will include a full kitchen with basic commercial equipment to help the selected vendor get started.
RFP - 9th Street Cafe Space
Informational Sessions
Interested applicants are encouraged to attend one of three informational sessions in person or via ZOOM to learn more about the café space, program goals, RFP requirements and application process.
- Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
Innovate Springfield
1 Horace Mann, Plz, 3rd Floor Classroom, Springfield
HUB Cafe ZOOM Recording of Session
- Thursday, June 25, 2026 at noon
Innovate Springfield
1 Horace Mann, Plz, 3rd Floor Classroom, Springfield
Zoom (https://uis.zoom.us/j/86144605193)
- Monday, July 6, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
Cap 1908
1100 South Grand Ave. East, Springfield
Zoom (https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86141536880)
After the sessions are complete, a link to the recording of the session will be posted here.
Important Deadlines
- Deadline to submit questions: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
- Deadline to submit proposals: Friday, July 31, 2026 at noon
Questions submitted by the deadline will be compiled, and responses will be posted to the Sangamon County website by July 6, 2026.
The Small Business Development Center has offered to help applicants with their individual responses to the RFP. You can learn more about this organization and how to reach them by clicking here ISDBC Flyer.
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