Do you have a passion for transportation and mobility? Are you interested in expanding your perspective among a wider variety of backgrounds? Do you have knowledge, experience or skills to share? 

Transport Chicago invites professionals and practitioners, researchers and academics, and activists and organizers to submit a proposal for our the annual Transport Chicago Conference on Friday, June 12, 2026 at voco Chicago Downtown. The one-day conference will feature presentations and sessions on a broad spectrum of transportation topics and we'd love to hear your voice. 

We are now taking proposals for individual presentations, sessions and workshops on all things transportation and related topics. Proposals for non-traditional presentations are welcomed. While topic is not required to be local to Chicago (as there is much to be learned from other places), there should be a clear relevance to Chicago area transportation.

Proposals should contain the following components:

• Topic/Problem Statement

• Methods/Project Approach

• Findings and Conclusions, focusing on lessons learned

Proposals will be reviewed based on:

• Quality: Is the proposal well written and does it seem like it will offer compelling insights for attendees?

• Interest: Does the presentation provide attendees a new perspective or deeper knowledge on a noteworthy topic?

• Relevance: Is the topic timely and regionally relevant?

On the proposal form, presenters are asked to provide two learning objectives, describing what they would like the audience to learn from the presentation.

• Example: “Participants will learn about the planning, financing, marketing, and operation of a public-private shuttle bus service that provides a viable transit option for travel to suburban employment centers.”

Additionally, presenters should describe information and insights that audience members will be able to apply in professional practice.

• Example: “Participants may be able to adapt elements of the shuttle bus program to meet transportation needs in their own communities.”

Following the conference, presenters will be required to submit presentation slides or a workshop summary (PowerPoint or PDF) to be posted on the Transport Chicago website. 

Please use this form to submit your proposal by 11:59pm CT on Saturday, February 28. The TC team will be in touch once the Steering Committee has reviewed all submissions and made selections. If selected, the TC team will work with you to ensure a successful effort and work through details including session scheduling and exact timing. If you have any questions, check out the FAQ section below or reach out to vicepresident@transportchicago.org.