March Voice 2026

THE CURRENCY OF CREDIBILITY

How thought leadership shapes reputations and builds brand recognition

By Christine Hand, managing editor

I have a confession to make … I’ve never been a huge fan of the term “thought leadership.” Shocking, I know, especially considering how often I use it in my role as managing editor of the VOICE. It always felt a bit pretentious to me: “Ooh, look at me. I’m thinking thoughts no one’s ever thought before.” (Hat tip to the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz.)

But now, I’m forced to admit that I was wrong about thought leadership, due, in part, to my overinterpretation of the term.

About Thought Leadership

Being a thought leader doesn’t mean you consider yourself the supreme expert of the universe. Rather, it’s about sharing opinions and insights based on your unique combination of aptitude, experience, and knowledge. It’s recognizing that your perspective on a topic has the power to broaden a conversation,

solve problems, and help others see things from a different perspective.

Erna Colborn, CFP, CEPA, financial advisor with Edward Jones in Rockford, believes thought leadership is also about listening: “Purposeful thought leadership is less about being a voice of authority and more about being a partner. You have to understand what keeps business owners awake at night and pay attention to their questions and concerns before you know how to use your expertise to their benefit.”

Thought Leadership’s Role in Marketing

In his article, “9 Key Differences Between Thought Leadership & Content Marketing,” on Linkgraph.com, Shafin Arshad writes, “Thought leadership builds authority by offering original insights, expert perspectives, and ideas that influence how others think. Content marketing focuses on visibility, performance, and guiding

audiences through the buyer journey.”

Thought leadership builds on content marketing by focusing not only on what your business offers, but also on what you think—your informed opinions on trends, challenges, and opportunities.

“Thought leadership doesn’t stand alone. It’s intertwined with branding and marketing, and all three pieces are needed.” Colborn said.

Thought Leadership in All Its Forms

Thought leadership runs the gamut, from speaking to a Scout troop or commenting on a social media post to writing a book or testifying before Congress. It all depends on your area of expertise, your target audience, and your comfort level.

One of the best ways for Chamber members to flex their thought leadership muscles is by writing articles for the

PRINT MARKETING ISN’T DEAD—IT’S THRIVING

Why there’s a renewed appreciation for print

By Chris Brown, Trekk

After 16 years designing, I’ve witnessed many industry shifts. When I was studying graphic design, print was everything; we focused on grid systems, techniques, and the influence of Bauhaus designers. Then, as digital tools like Dreamweaver emerged, we were told everything would go online, and, to be honest, that was daunting. Yet here we are today, and print has not only survived—it’s thriving.

At Trekk, I’m grateful to be part of a company that still prioritizes print. Trends may cycle, but it has been exciting to see a renewed appreciation

for print, especially through catalogs and personalized direct mail.

Why Print Is Irreplaceable

In marketing, there is major power in tactile experiences. A physical catalog or personalized mailer creates a sense of care and connection that is often lacking from digital channels. Print demands engagement—you hold it, place it on your desk, and, if it’s really good, save it for later. The largest brands understand the power of print. Amazon, J.Crew, L.L. Bean, and Wayfair rely on direct mail because it

works. Compare email open rates, which hover around 20% in most industries, to the 70–80% open rate mail achieves on average. Plus, sometimes marketers forget that not everyone is fully digital. Around 7% of adults in the U.S. don’t use the Internet. My own parents don’t use email! For them and many others, print remains an essential communication channel, one marketers shouldn’t overlook.

The Power of a Multi-Channel Approach Print shines brightest when integrated

If someone were to tell you they “had to do their marketing on Saturday,” you’d probably think they were talking about creating sales promotions, press releases, or social media posts. Unless you’re an old soul, in which case you might think they intended to go to the market to sell and buy goods. Indeed, there was a day—starting back in the mid 1500’s—when marketing wasn’t a science or a profession, but a weekly chore to sell items produced on the farm and to buy things for daily living. Marketing on the modern farm is much more sophisticated with cash, contracting, and futures options to optimize price, manage inventory, and mitigate risk. With that said, this farmwife has never gotten involved in marketing our crops—that’s all in the hands of my brother-in-law. I do know that commodity marketing is a far cry from my career in marketing in which I peddled services and goods, from healthcare and consulting to fasteners and heavy equipment. Regardless of what you’re marketing, the Ps are the same: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. Although, the classic “Four Ps of Marketing” have been expanded by some to include People (your target market and/or your employees) and Presentation (packaging, messaging, and branding).

TO MARKET, TO MARKET

A great place to do business

By Angela Kay Larson, chief executive officer, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

One of our roles as an economic development organization for the region is to market to our target industries. These target industries are represented by companies that are currently doing business in our region, as well as companies that we’d like to attract here. Both existing and prospective companies benefit from understanding why northwest Illinois is a great place to do business.

WHY OUR REGION IS A GREAT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS

Our location. For those who are responsible for getting raw materials and components into factories and finished goods out to customers, our position on the map is prime. With access to major interstates, rail service, and one of the top cargo airports in the country, our location is unbeatable in serving the U.S. market and beyond. Our abundant natural resources. Pay attention to the water wars out west and scarcity in other parts of the world, and you’ll quickly appreciate the quantity and quality of Midwestern water. Tag on the fertility of our soil and proximity to timber and iron ore deposits, and we’re rich with resources. In addition, from a livability viewpoint, our green spaces and waterways are highly attractive to outdoor enthusiast. Our skilled workforce. While “availability of skilled workers” remains

WH AT 2026 ME ANS FOR BR ANDING & MA RKETING

Current trends in marketing are about mixing technology that scales with human connection that resonates.

TREND CATEGORY

AI and automation

Community and authenticity

Short-form and visual content

Hyper-personalization

Owned channels

WHY IT MATTERS

Faster, scalable content and campaign execution

Builds deeper trust and loyalty

Meets audiences where attention is highest

Converts with relevance and context

Future-proof audience reach

the top barrier to growth for many of our employers (source: GRCC Quarterly Business Sentiment Survey), we’re doing something about it. Our schools aggressively follow the Illinois Board of Education guidelines for Career and College Readiness. Rock Valley College, Rockford University, and Rockford Career College work closely with employers to provide relevant curriculum and hands-on training. Our trade unions continually provide apprenticeships and training for skilled workers. The Workforce Connection, our regional resource for workforce development, connects employers and prospective employees to programs and funding. And a host of other organizations provide training and development services that help people improve their skills and find meaningful jobs. Our collaborative focus on business growth. This is perhaps what sets us apart from other regions. When an existing company is struggling or expanding, or a new company is

interested in moving here, it’s fairly easy to convene “all hands on deck” to support the effort. It’s not uncommon to sit at the table with ComEd, Nicor, Four Rivers Sanitation, The Workforce Connection, R1 Planning Council, GoRockford, state and municipal staff, and elected officials to remove barriers and ease the path toward success. I heard one developer remark, “I don’t want to do business anywhere else,” because of the intense collaboration in our region. Our region’s central location, natural resources, skilled workers, and intense collaboration help define the “product” that the GRCC is taking to market every time we talk to a company about expanding or moving here. And while marketing the region is one of the GRCC’s primary roles, you too can help promote the region. When you talk to someone across the street, across the country, or across the ocean, market our community. Tell them why this is a great place to do business.

Angela Kay Larson, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce CEO, has spent the majority of her career as a marketer. She has extensive experience with all the Ps of marketing, but her favorite P is product and, more specifically, new product development. From identifying the needs of the customer to translating needs into specifications and specifications into product design, she relishes teaming with engineers to fully complete a QFD chart. Even more so, she loves the joy of commercialization and seeing a shiny new product in the hands of a happy customer.

ABOUT THIS ISSUE …

Although marketing and branding are topics appropriate for any issue of the VOICE, we’re giving them special emphasis this month. Fresh from the launch of our rebrand, the GRCC is excited by how our new identity is reinvigorating our publications, our events, and our culture. And we want to share some of that excitement and potential with you in these pages. To set the tone, here are some marketing and branding quotes I found while researching this issue.

“Your personal brand serves as your best protection against business factors you can’t control.” — Dan Schawbel

“If people like you they will listen to you, but if they trust you, they’ll do business with you.” — Zig Ziglar

“Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make but about the stories you tell.” — Seth Godin

“Marketing is really just about sharing your passion.” — Michael Hyatt

—Christine Hand, managing editor

UPCOMING EDITORIAL THEMES FOR THE VOICE

April – The MATH issue (mathematics in business)

May – The Great Outdoors (sports, recreation, nature, outdoor occupations)

June – Makers and Movers (manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, distribution)

Visit rockfordchamber.com/the-voice for our editorial calendar, article guidelines, and advertising information.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

VOICE. Through our monthly newspaper, GRCC members share opinions, experiences, and best practices with the business community. Plus, where else can you see your name in print in this world of all digital all the time?!

BUSINESS BENEFITS

Credibility. When customers and partners see consistent, informative content, they begin to associate your name with reliability and authority. By consistently publishing practical insights, businesses demonstrate transparency and value before a formal transaction ever occurs.

“From an HR perspective, it helps attract talent, because people want to work for a forward-thinking, knowledgeable organization,” said Maureen Hagen, HMC account executive with Paylocity. “There are a lot of growing, modern organizations that have strong thought leadership sharing practices—companies that care about their organization, care about their people, care about their industry as a whole. Thought leadership reflects that.”

When a company commits to defining and sharing its perspectives, it clarifies its purpose internally as well. Employees feel more engaged when their organization is recognized as a respected voice in the industry. Relationships. Good content acts as a magnet, drawing prospects organically. Instead of relying solely on traditional sales pitches, your expertise naturally attracts the right audience. A wellcrafted VOICE article or social media

post can reach countless potential clients who are already interested in your insights—often before they even realize they need your services. Visibility. Search engines reward businesses that publish high-quality, relevant content. That means your expertise can reach beyond your immediate network to global audiences searching for your subject matter. For smaller or locally based organizations, such visibility can level the playing field against larger competitors.

ROI. In his article on csuitecontent. com, “Content Marketing vs. Thought Leadership: A Complete Guide,” Justin Reynolds wrote, “While [thought leadership] helps leaders strengthen their personal brands, it also raises brand awareness for their organizations, helping them cultivate a reputation as innovative, forwardthinking companies. When executed with precision, thought leadership has proven to be quite lucrative. One recent study from The Harris Poll found that every dollar spent on thought leadership returns an average of $14.”

PROFESSIONAL BENEFITS

Thought leadership doesn’t just grow businesses; it grows professionals. Authority and influence. When you engage in thought leadership, every piece of content becomes a professional calling card—evidence of your expertise and initiative. Knowledge and confidence. Writing articles, appearing on panels, or producing podcasts helps

individuals sharpen their thinking, clarify their viewpoints, and refine their communication skills.

“One of the most rewarding things about my job is participating in expert panels at conferences,” said Whitney Martin, Made For Rockford program director at GoRockford. “You learn from the other panelists, you get questions from the audience that make you think and put your knowledge to the test. It reinforces what you know and makes you take a deeper look at what you don’t.”

More opportunities. Professionals who regularly share their business acumen often find themselves invited to mentor others, join advisory boards, or speak at conferences. These opportunities enrich careers while expanding one’s sphere of influence.

“Speaking up about my industry and sharing insights on my work in in HR and HR technology has created more opportunities to share my expertise,” said Hagen. “I’ve been invited to speak at events and partner with organizations. It’s help build my brand as a professional.”

Personal connections. Thought leadership is not self-promotion disguised as insight; it’s providing meaningful value to others. And authenticity is non-negotiable.

“People appreciate authenticity and vulnerability, especially younger generations,” said Roger Peterson, creative director and senior account manager at Heinzeroth Marketing Group in Rockford. “By sharing lessons learned from failures as

well as successes, business leaders become more relatable, building trust and credibility with their audience and creating deeper connections.”

GETTING STARTED

Define your core themes. Focus on the issues your audience cares about most. What unique perspective can you offer? Leverage collaboration. Work with a colleague to co-author an article or participate in a panel discussion. Collective expertise often generates richer, more relatable content. Build a content rhythm. Quality matters more than quantity, but consistency builds recognition. Start with a monthly blog, quarterly whitepaper, or weekly social post.

Repurpose across formats. A single whitepaper can become the foundation for an article, a podcast discussion, or a speaking opportunity. Leveraging content multiplies its reach.

Measure engagement. Use analytics tools to understand what resonates most and shape future topics accordingly.

EXTERNAL BENEFITS

For GRCC members and local businesses, thought leadership is more than a marketing tool; it’s a community-building instrument. By sharing your knowledge generously, you not only grow your own business but also strengthen the collective reputation of local enterprise. In doing so, you help ensure that both commerce and community continue to thrive— powered by ideas worth sharing.

WHY VIDEO ISN’T OPTIONAL ANYMORE

The shift in how customers engage

By Rebecca Epperson, Chartwell Agency

If you’ve noticed video everywhere like social feeds, websites, and streaming ads, you’re witnessing a fundamental shift in how businesses communicate. Video has moved from “nice to have” to downright essential.

Numbers Tell a Story

Viewers retain 95% of a message when they watch it in a video compared to just 10% when reading it in text, according to research from Insivia. But here’s what makes video particularly valuable now— it’s not just a compelling piece of content that lives in one place; it’s content that works (and is being prioritized) across all your communication channels— website, social media, traditional broadcast, and streaming platforms.

The C-TV Opportunity

Different video placements require different approaches, and strategic video production allows the final piece to be adapted for multiple uses rather than recreated from scratch. Chartwell’s digital team would tell you that top of those strategic considerations should be its use for Connected TV (C-TV).

Over 88% of U.S. households now have at least one C-TV device—think the Rokus, Fire Sticks, and smart TVs that have replaced traditional cable, according to Mountain.com. C-TV ad spends in the U.S. hit $23.6 billion in 2024 and was projected to grow another 13% in 2025, according to the Interactive Advertising Bureau.

What makes C-TV compelling isn’t just the audience size but the combination of benefits: pinpoint targeting by age, location, interests, and behaviors; your ad on the biggest screen in the house; measurability with impression tracking and completion rates; and the ability to retarget users who’ve already shown interest in your brand.

Brett Gordon, senior sales director at Simpli.fi, describes it perfectly: “It gives my partners the ability to bring their big screen message to life, but now with the precision, optimization and performance-driven strategies that have long driven digital marketing success … It’s television built for today’s audiences.”

Creative Considerations That Matter

When Chartwell Agency works with clients to develop videos for C-TV, we apply some specific thinking to the creative strategy.

• Hook viewers in the first three seconds. While C-TV viewers often can’t skip ads, attention still drops fast. Start strong with an eye-catching visual or emotionally engaging scene. Keep your story clear and focused on one main idea. Viewers are often multitasking, so clarity helps ensure your message lands even if attention wavers.

• Design for the living room experience. Use high-quality visuals and legible text that work on large screens viewed from a distance. Small fonts or cluttered layouts don’t translate well.

• Maintain brand consistency. Your C-TV ad should feel like part of your larger brand ecosystem, aligning tone, color palette, and messaging with your other campaigns.

• End with a strong call-to-action. Even though viewers can’t click directly from a C-TV ad, memorable CTAs like short URLs drive awareness and next steps.

Budget-Friendly Approaches

Here’s good news for budget-conscious businesses: you don’t always need new video content. Repurposing existing video assets from previous campaigns, event coverage, or product demonstrations can be cost-efficient. While we love the opportunity to build a video to a specific audience, we’ve worked with clients to re-edit or resize assets to meet C-TV specifications, supplemented with simple motion graphics or refreshed voiceovers to give existing content professional polish without the cost of new production.

The Bottom Line

Video isn’t just another marketing tactic—it’s increasingly how customers prefer to consume information and make buying decisions. Platforms like C-TV offer unprecedented targeting capabilities combined with big-screen impact.

Businesses that develop strong video strategies now position themselves ahead of competitors still relying solely on traditional approaches. The question isn’t whether to invest in video marketing— it’s how quickly you can get started.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Rebecca Epperson is the founder/CEO of Chartwell Agency, an award-winning full-service marketing firm based in Rockford and with clients across the country.

with digital marketing. As a millennial approaching 40, I appreciate a welltargeted social media ad. But when I receive a follow-up mailer related to something I viewed online, it creates a deeper, more personalized experience. The ROI on this type of omni-channel approach is strong; studies have found that combining direct mail with abandoned cart emails can double reactivation rates.

QR codes are a big part of this strategy. As a designer, I don’t find them visually appealing, but they’ve become indispensable, seamlessly connecting print to digital while enabling robust tracking. (Pro tip: Using a tool like Flowcode can help make them more aesthetically pleasing.)

Designing for the Tangible

Designing for print requires a fundamentally different mindset than designing for digital. The medium itself shapes the process.

• Fonts and Colors: Print imposes unique font constraints, and working within the CMYK color space can feel limiting at first, compared to the vibrant possibilities of digital RGB.

Paper Matters: The texture, weight, and coating of the paper you spec can all be used to evoke emotion and convey brand characteristics. For example, when we want to communicate that a brand is high-end, we go with a much heavier paper.

• Concise Messaging: Unlike a webpage or an email, print has strict space limitations; every word must earn its place. Too much text will overwhelm the reader—effective print relies on crisp, concise copy.

• Physical Prototyping: For a complex piece like a nine-panel rolling fold brochure we created for one client, we built physical mockups to ensure the story unfolded coherently from panel to panel—a level of hands-on problem-solving unique to print.

Golden Rules for Successful Print

If you invest in print, do it right. Cutting corners undermines the effectiveness of a print piece, and the last thing you want is to spend money on something that comes out looking cheap. Invest in quality. In addition to choosing a heavier stock to achieve a premium feel, think about adding special finishings,

like die cuts, foils, or embossing. You want every detail to feel intentional. Prioritize personalization. I like to go beyond simply adding a first name and use whatever data I have to personalize things like images, offers, and promo codes to create a stronger connection. Execute with precision. Rigorously proof both content and design, and then communicate clearly with your printer to maintain color accuracy and precise cuts. And please, for me, avoid using design tools like Canva for print. While they may be convenient, they often produce files unsuitable for professional printing. Remember, it takes a team. Designers, content developers, and printers need to collaborate to achieve high-quality results.

Final Thoughts

Print marketing is far from obsolete. It remains a powerful, tangible, and highly effective channel, especially when combined with digital strategies. Print delivers a memorable, multisensory experience that digital alone cannot replicate, leading to stronger engagement and impressive ROI. If you’re evaluating your marketing approach, don’t underestimate the enduring power of print—for many brands, it’s an investment well worth making.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Chris Brown is art director at Trekk. With an emphasis on corporate identity and branding in print, he helps brands harness the power of compelling visuals to tell a cohesive brand story. Chris also designs for the digital space, including websites and apps.

THE 2026 SOCIAL MEDIA SHIFT

Why views matter more than ever for businesses

By Katrina Kirby, Social Kat

Social media isn’t what it used to be. For many local businesses, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube were once all about likes, shares, and comments, giving us instant community approval and engagement. Views now take center stage, shaping how algorithms determine which content gets served, seen, and shared. For businesses, this shift isn’t just technical, it fundamentally changes how we think about our content.

Likes vs. Views

Historically, likes were a primary form of measurable success on social media. They were simple, visible indicators of popularity. But users can like a photo and walk away.

Views tell platforms that someone consumed or watched your content. Today’s algorithms reward not just consumption, but completion. Videos that are watched all the way through signal relevance and interest, which boosts visibility. That doesn’t mean static images or text-only posts need to

go away, but they may get deprioritized compared to intriguing video posts.

Platforms like Instagram now favor short form video formats, like reels. Reels alone have taken over our feeds and because of that, the algorithm favors them.

But don’t get stressed out. The shift to views is meaningful for businesses, we just won’t see it automatically like we used to.

Consumption is valued more than approval. A viewer who watches your video or sees your post, even without liking or commenting, can trigger algorithmic preference, making it more likely others see your content.

Engagement has shifted. Algorithms consider watch time, completion rate, replays, and even whether someone clicked on captions before deciding whether your post should be viewed or not.

Users Aren’t Liking Anymore Individuals are scrolling faster than ever. Instead of pausing to read, like,

KNOW BEFORE YOU NON-COMPETE

How to navigate the current rules and prepare for what might come

By Timothy Scordato, Reno & Zahm LLP

On Jan. 1, 2026, Illinois nearly joined a handful of other states in banning non-compete clauses. It did not, but it could soon. Employers and employees should know how to navigate the current rules regarding restrictive covenants and prepare for what might come.

The heightened scrutiny against noncompete and non-solicitation clauses began in 2023 when the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed a rule that would have affected nearly one in five American workers by banning noncompete agreements across all 50 states. The FTC proposed that the ban would generate over 8,500 new businesses each year, raise workers’ earnings by nearly $300 billion per year, lower health care costs, and boost innovation. The proposed ban was widely popular. The FTC received more than 26,000 comments on the proposed rule, with more than 25,000 comments in support. However, in 2024 the proposed ban was challenged in three federal courts, and the FTC’s final rule was enjoined from taking effect. The FTC appealed, but the appeals were later abandoned

or share, we skim for a second, scroll past, and keep going, trapped in the algorithm’s “dark scroll hole” that feeds us exactly what it thinks we want. Whether you see it as good or bad, as a business owner, it’s time to keep up. Today, your content has roughly three seconds to capture attention before users swipe away. So how do you do it?

Video content that stops the scroll. Caption hooks that grab the viewer from the very first sentence. • Less filler, more impact. Show your inspiring image or message immediately.

Creative hooks that make people stop, engage, and want to learn more.

Storytelling is Still Huge I’ve always been an advocate for storytelling. With my PR background, I understand the importance of a good story and making it relatable. Short form video is a great way to do this. You need to find a way for the user to connect emotionally. This might be a behind-the-scenes (BTS) look. It might be a customer testimonial or a day-in-the-life type of story. In a world where AI is everywhere, keeping it

under the Trump administration in September of 2025. Instead of pursuing a ban, the Trump administration indicated that the FTC would assess the lawfulness of non-compete agreements on a case-by-case basis.

This has not stopped states from proactively enforcing a ban on restrictive covenants. California, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota have near-total bans on non-compete agreements, and many states heavily restrict non-compete and non-solicitation agreements according to industry or salary thresholds. Illinois is one of them.

Illinois House Bill 3213, which would ban restrictive covenants in Illinois, continues to linger in the general assembly and has yet to be passed, but Illinois currently restricts these agreements in a variety of ways. Under the Illinois Freedom to Work Act, 820 ILCS 90/1 et seq., non-competes are only enforceable against employees earning more than $75,000, and non-solicitation provisions are only enforceable against employees earning

authentic is huge, and telling the story quickly (under a minute) will benefit you tremendously. Storytelling also helps maximize views and retention.

What This Means for Local Businesses

For Rockford area businesses, this new social media environment presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge is creating quick content that people want to read. The opportunity is that brands no longer need huge budgets to compete. Short, authentic, real world content can outperform highly produced ads if it resonates with viewers.

Social media will keep evolving, but one thing is constant—content needs to be relatable. Whether it’s through storytelling, jumping on a trending topic, or simply being authentic and showing who you are, meaningful interaction is what truly matters. Likes and followers may fluctuate, but if your views are strong, you’re on the right track. Keep going; you’ve got this!

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Katryna (aka Kat) Kirby is the founder of Social Kat, a boutique social media and public relations firm in the Rockford Region. Born and raised in the Midwest, she has more than 10 years of experience in social media management, public relations, event planning and more.

more than $45,000. These numbers are set to change in 2027. Further, employers must give a copy of the restrictive covenant to the employee at least 14 days before the commencement of employment and advise the employee in writing to consult with an attorney.

There are many more technical restrictions as well. Non-compete and non-solicitation agreements are only enforceable in Illinois if the employee receives adequate consideration, the covenant is ancillary to a valid employment relationship, the covenant is no greater than necessary to protect a legitimate business interest of the employer, the covenant does not impose undue hardship on the employee, and the covenant does not injure the public. Illinois courts generally consider the adequate consideration requirement to be met when the employee has worked for two years after signing the agreement.

The penalties and highly legal language governing these restrictive covenants make it even more important to seek the advice of an attorney before drafting or signing a non-compete or non-solicitation agreement. The Illinois Attorney General

may prosecute, and the court may impose a penalty of up to $5,000 for each violation or up to $10,000 for each repeat violation of the Illinois Freedom to Work Act. If an employer unsuccessfully sues to enforce an agreement against an employee, the employee can recover attorney fees.

It is always prudent to speak with an attorney first before finalizing that noncompete or non-solicitation agreement, especially as Illinois may join the growing number of states and pass a total ban on all future agreements soon.

Reno & Zahm represents a diverse client base, including public and private businesses, organizations, and individuals, regarding appeals, banking services and financing, bankruptcy and debtor-creditor issues, business law, government law, employment law, estate planning, federal and state litigation, intellectual property law, personal injury, real estate, land use, and zoning.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Timothy M. Scordato is an associate at Reno & Zahm LLP, where his practice focuses on civil and commercial litigation, appeals, elder law, nonprofit, municipal, and employment law. He is admitted to practice law in the State of Illinois and the Northern District of Illinois.

HOW WORD OF MOUTH SHAPES MARKETING ROI

Do your marketing efforts reinforce or undermine brand perception?

By Robin Albright, Cain & Company

Ask most business owners where their best customers come from, and the answer is rarely a social post or ad campaign. It’s a conversation. Word of mouth has always influenced buying decisions. What has changed is how other marketing efforts either reinforce that influence or undermine it.

In B2B especially, more money tends to be on the line, which raises the perceived risk tied to every purchase. As the decision process has become more research-driven, word of mouth has not lost relevance. It has gained new dependencies.

Forrester’s 2024 trend research shows that 92% of B2B buyers begin their search with a vendor already in mind, underscoring how early brand perception

and reputation shape decisions before buyers ever start comparing options.

ROI lives in what happens during that consideration phase, when buyers look for consistency across public touchpoints, such as the company’s website, social media, and search visibility. What people are saying about a brand remains one of the strongest drivers of ROI, because it accelerates trust. But that trust only converts when the marketing that supports it holds up under scrutiny. Search visibility. When buyers look up a company they have already heard about, search results become a credibility check. Strong visibility reinforces that the business is established and relevant. Search engine optimization is rarely fast, but it compounds over time. As

authority builds, high rankings do more than drive traffic. They make it easier for buyers to trust what they find. Company website. A website often carries the most weight during evaluation. When the experience is clear and easy to navigate—especially on mobile devices, which accounts for nearly 63% of website traffic according to a survey by Statista—it boosts the trust built through word of mouth. A slow, outdated, or confusing website can undermine that trust at a critical moment in the evaluation process.

Social media. When buyers vet a B2B vendor on social media, they are usually looking for common trust signals like consistency, relevance, and credibility. A strong presence shows the brand is engaged and aligned with its audience.

Social proof. Reviews give word of mouth a public place to live. Buyers often look to them for patterns that confirm reliability. And how a company responds to feedback matters as much as the feedback itself. Thoughtful responses signal accountability and help translate reputation into proof.

Strong content. Authoritative, educational content gives buyers the tools to evaluate once a recommendation has sparked their interest. It helps them understand complex offerings and share information internally to support decision-making. When content both educates and aligns with what buyers have already heard, it strengthens confidence. Taken together, these efforts determine whether word of mouth carries through the buying process or stalls under deeper scrutiny.

Cain & Company is a Rockfordbased B2B marketing agency that knows the industrial world and how to make it make sense. Our team brings strategy and creative together in a way that feels seamless and intentional, so your team can focus on the work that keeps your business moving.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Robin Albright is growth marketing manager at Cain & Company with hands-on experience across digital strategy, content, social media, design, and sales enablement. She focuses on building cohesive marketing strategies that support complex B2B buying cycles.

WHY YOUR ADVERTISING IS FAILING

How to maximize impact with full-funnel marketing

By Angenette Natkowski, Nexstar Media Group

Rockford area businesses don’t compete in a vacuum. They vie for attention, trust, and loyalty. While reputation travels fast in our tightknit market, buying decisions take time. That’s exactly why full-funnel marketing is the most effective strategy for your business. Think you can’t afford to market on more than one media platform? Here’s a formula to help stretch your marketing dollars while getting a better ROI.

Start with One Funnel, Not Every Channel

Affording full-funnel marketing doesn’t mean buying everything at once. It means making sure each stage of the customer journey is covered, even if it’s with just one or two tactics per level. A local business might use television or video for the awareness (upper funnel), email and SEO for consideration (middle funnel),

and paid search or direct outreach for conversion (lower funnel). The goal is balance, not volume.

Use Local Media to Stretch Reach

Our region’s local businesses have an advantage that national brands don’t: efficient local media. Local television, radio, and digital platforms deliver brand awareness at a fraction of the cost of larger markets. One well-placed local TV schedule can fuel months of search, website traffic, and inbound leads—making mid- and lower-funnel efforts work harder without increasing spend.

Let Upper-Funnel Do the Heavy Lifting

When awareness is strong, everything else costs less. Businesses that invest, even modestly, in top-of-funnel visibility, often see lower cost-per-lead, stronger paid search performance,

and higher close rates. Instead of overspending on last-click tactics, such as SEM/Paid Search, you can reduce pressure by warming the market first with broad reach.

Repurpose Content Across the Funnel Affordability comes from reuse.

A single TV spot can become social videos, website content, email creative, and sales follow-up material. One webinar can support email nurturing, SEO, direct marketing, and sales conversations. Full-funnel marketing is most affordable when assets work in multiple places.

Align Sales and Marketing Budgets

For many local businesses, sales and marketing operate separately— but they shouldn’t. When marketing supports the sales process with education and credibility, sales cycles shorten and close rates increase. That efficiency often frees up budget to support more of the funnel without increasing total spend.

Measure What Actually Moves Revenue Full-funnel marketing pays for itself when it’s measured correctly. Don’t track only leads, but time to close, cost per sale, additional sales and overall lifetime value of each customer. Companies that focus on these metrics quickly see which funnel stages drive the most ROI— and can shift dollars accordingly.

Think Momentum, Not Monthly Spend

The biggest mistake local businesses make is treating marketing as a series of short-term campaigns. Full-funnel marketing builds momentum. A consistent presence creates compounding returns that outperform on-again, off-again spending.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

As director of sales for Nexstar Media Group in Rockford, Angenette Natkowski leads advertising strategies for WTVO Channel 17 and WQRF Channel 39. A certified digital marketing expert and seasoned media leader, she leverages decades of experience to drive revenue and deliver impactful results, helping local businesses thrive through innovative broadcast and digital solutions.

THREE PAIRS OF SHOES

How to evaluate your social media content

By Jacob Bradt, RockBuzz Network

When we meet with local businesses to talk social media, we tend to see a lot of pictures of products, Canva graphics, and stock images. These posts typically come from a singular perspective, that of the business owner. This is the wrong way to go about social media in 2026. Social media is no longer a place for you to “sell” or “market” your company. And it hasn’t been for a while now. To understand how to make social media content that will get views and engagement, you have to put yourself in the shoes of three different people. (Now the title makes sense.)

The First Pair of Shoes: Your Own Yes, you are the least important factor in this process. I understand this can hurt the ego so if you need a minute before you continue reading, please take some time … You’re back? Great! The first step is to ask yourself what you’re trying to communicate or promote with this specific piece of content. Maybe it’s a product or service. Maybe it’s to celebrate a company milestone. The answer to this question will give you the foundation for your content.

The Second Pair of Shoes: The Platform Understanding the perspective of the platform (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.) will help you avoid some of the major pitfalls that lead to bad content. These platforms are all for-profit companies. They derive their revenue from ads that businesses pay for. The more eyes that are on the platform, the more ads they can show and the more money they will make. If your content looks like an ad but you’re not paying for it, then why would the platform want to show your content? Things like fliers and graphics, strong calls-to-action, and links to contact or sales pages are all counterproductive to the platform’s goals. The other goal of these platforms is to keep users on them for as long as possible. If users don’t stop scrolling to view your content, then the platform is going to show someone else’s content instead. Which begs the question, how do I get users to stop scrolling?

The Most Important Pair of Shoes: The Audience

At first glance, this might feel like the hardest pair to put on. Here’s the hack. What content do YOU engage

with on social media? Do you watch videos that have long introductions? Do you engage with stock photos or graphics? How about close-up shots of products with no real context?

Our brains are wired to see and recognize faces, which is why your social content should feature as many faces as it can. We also know people have short attention spans, so dive right into the content. If you want people to engage with your content, then your content needs to be social and people-y. (Yes, that’s a made-up word.)

Back to Bare Feet

If you make content for yourself, no one will care. If you make content

for the audience you’re trying to reach, they will stop (the scroll) and pay attention. Now go out there and make some people-y content!

Rockford Buzz is part media outlet, part marketing agency. We partner with local organizations to help them with their marketing needs. From social media content to Google wizardry, our focus is helping local organizations thrive. We also produce over 200 pieces of positive Rockford content each year for free.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Have you ever gotten so mad at something that you decided to take action to change it? A Forbes article in 2013 smack talking Rockford was the tipping point for Jacob Bradt. In 2014 he launched Rockford Buzz, a company dedicated to promoting positive local stories and helping local businesses thrive.

PRIORITIZING PROTECTION

A layered approach to safety in Rockford Public Schools

By Jason Barthel, Rockford Public Schools

Safety is essential for learning, connection, and growth. For the past 20 years, RPS 205 has developed a layered security strategy, implementing modern enhancements in proactive security. These measures are not merely compliance checks; they are critical investments that foster a culture of trust and prioritize students’ well-being.

Detecting Threats and Cultivating Trust

RPS has made significant strides in physical security, most notably through the adoption of the Evolv Detection System in 2023. This AI-powered, touchless security screening technology helps keep weapons and unsafe items out of the schools and facilities. The system screens up to 4,000 people per hour, allowing individuals to walk through without stopping or emptying pockets. Since the adoption of this technology, the number of weapons incidents in high schools has declined dramatically, dropping from 31 incidents in the 20222023 school year to fewer than 10 the

following year, and only one projected for the 2025-2026 school year.

Complementing these technological improvements is a new guard training and professionalism initiative. This program was designed to ensure guards are better prepared, trusted by students, and seen as positive figures in the school community. The resulting impact is a safer and more respectful school environment. Operationally, it has also strengthened the workforce, helping achieve a 20% increase in guard retention and boosting guard attendance rates from 73% to more than 92%.

Enhancing Operational Safety

The rollout of Halo Vape Detectors across 12 buildings addresses issues such as vaping, smoking, bullying, aggression, and vandalism. The introduction of these detectors has increased disciplinary actions related to detection, successfully leading to more open bathrooms.

The SmartPass (Digital Hall Pass) system replaced traditional paper passes

at middle and high schools, allowing schools to manage and monitor student movement efficiently. By providing analytics on passes, including tracking “frequent fliers” and aggregated lost instructional time, the system helps reduce unauthorized hallway activity.

The student ID rollout requires secondary students to wear physical badges to control building access, identify students during passing periods and emergencies, and promote accountability. This initiative has enhanced building security and helped cultivate a stronger sense of student responsibility and belonging. Early results show success, with Flinn, RESA, and Marshall Middle Schools nearing 100% compliance for students wearing their IDs.

Preventing Cyber Attacks

Rockford Public Schools also grapples with the increasing threat of cyber incidents. Nationally, K-12 school districts report an average of five cyber incidents per week. This is highly concerning, because schools are heavily reliant on technology and internet connectivity.

Cyber incidents range from ransomware attacks and electronic data breaches to online class intrusions. As we learned in September 2019, the consequences are far-reaching— immediate disruptions to teaching and significant financial costs. Cyberattacks also lead to a loss of trust among parents, teachers, and the community.

To mitigate these digital vulnerabilities, the RPS 205 Technology Services Division implemented a multi-tiered prevention strategy, including regular software updates, multi-factor authentication, and staff and students training to spot and report phishing, vishing, and smishing threats.

The safety efforts at Rockford Public Schools demonstrate our profound commitment to protecting students. By focusing on multilayered security, the district ensures that safety underpins learning and supports student success.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Jason Barthel serves as the chief information officer (CIO) for Rockford Public Schools, overseeing technology services and ensuring equitable access to educational technology.

CREATING A RETAIL STORY

How a local mall rebranded its place in the community

By Sandy Dingus, Edgebrook Shopping Center

Retail centers don’t win on square footage anymore; they win on story.

For decades, Edgebrook has been a familiar landmark on North Alpine Road, but what has changed in recent years is how clearly the property has defined its brand role in the community. It’s not a mall that happens to host events, but a community gathering place that happens to have shopping and dining. That distinction matters because in 2026, retail is not competing only with other retail. It’s competing with streaming, scrolling, same-day shipping, and the simple question of whether leaving the house feels worth it.

When Edgebrook leaned into experience, the business results followed. Occupancy has climbed from roughly 60% to about 80% in the last few years, with five new events added over that same period. Music on the Mall attendance increased eightfold, and vendor participation at arts and crafts events tripled. Those numbers

are not a coincidence. They are what happens when marketing is treated as an operational strategy, not just promotion.

Edgebrook has built repeatable moments that people can plan around. Music on the Mall runs weekly on Friday evenings in the summer and is intentionally positioned as free, local, and easy to attend. The event listing itself reinforces the experience, from the consistent showtime window to the location details and expectations about seating. That’s not fluff; that’s brand management. Clear, consistent expectations reduce friction, and reduced friction drives turnout.

The same principle shows up across the broader event calendar. Edgebrook’s events create a cadence across seasons, from farmers markets to arts and crafts fairs to holiday programming. Cadence is a marketing asset because it trains your audience. People do not have to be convinced from scratch every time. They simply need a reminder.

This is where Edgebrook’s impact extends beyond its own property. Retail centers are economic infrastructure. When they are healthy, they support small businesses, create part-time and entry-level jobs, and keep discretionary spending local. The marketing choices that drive foot traffic also shape the perception of a corridor and, by extension, a city. If your community has a place where families reliably gather on a Friday night, that place becomes part of how residents describe where they live.

For business owners reading this, the takeaway is not “host more events.” It is more specific.

First, define your brand promise in plain language. Edgebrook’s “meet, shop, dine” positioning is a simple statement of purpose that aligns with how people actually use the space. When the promise is clear, decisions get easier. You know what fits and what does not.

Second, build experiences that create social proof. A concert series and a makers market naturally generate photos, conversations, and return visits. That is organic marketing with a long shelf life.

Third, treat vendors and tenants as partners in the story. Tripling vendor participation does not happen if the experience is poorly organized or the audience is unreliable. It happens when the event is well-branded, wellrun, and predictable enough for small businesses to invest their time.

Finally, track the right metrics Occupancy, attendance, and vendor growth are business outcomes. In a time when marketing is often judged by metrics, Edgebrook’s recent trajectory is a reminder that the best branding shows up in behavior, not just impressions.

Edgebrook’s evolution is not a feel-good story about retail “coming back.” It is a practical example of how consistent branding and experience design can stabilize a property, strengthen a commercial district, and give a community a place to belong.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Sandy Dingus is a marketing and events coordinator for Orput Companies, Inc., the real estate development company that owns the Edgebrook Shopping Center.

STRATEGIC VISIBILITY

The value of public and professional awards programs

By Caitlin Pusateri, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

In 2024, at the under-the-wire age of 39, I was named one of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) 40 Under 40. The national award recognizes emerging leaders who have demonstrated success in their careers and made meaningful contributions to their communities. I was featured in the ACCE e-magazine and am still listed on the website.

There was no grand ballroom, no gold statue, no dramatic walk-up music. Just a simple accolade I was deeply proud to receive. And if I’m honest? I sort of squandered it.

After a particularly intense merger process, it felt like a personal victory lap. I printed the announcement. I called my mom. I smiled. I moved on. What I didn’t do was leverage it for what it truly was: strategic visibility. Honors and recognition are often treated as personal validation. And yes, they absolutely validate hard work. But they can also signify third-party

credibility. That matters. According to Nielsen, 92% of consumers trust recommendations and endorsements over traditional advertising. In other words, people are far more likely to believe what others say about you than what you say about yourself.

Think about your favorite restaurant. You’re scanning the menu and see “Nana’s Award-Winning Meatloaf.” Suddenly, you’re intrigued. What makes it award-winning? Who crowned Nana? Is it really that good? The designation alone elevates it above the other items on the menu and perhaps pushes you to order. Recognition programs have specific criteria. You cannot simply declare yourself “award-winning.” Someone else must determine that your work, your impact, or your leadership meets a defined standard. In a time when trust feels increasingly fragile, that external validation is powerful. Nominating and being nominated for local, regional, or national awards

SALES TAX INCREASE ON THE BALLOT FOR WINNEBAGO COUNTY

ROCPAC launches opposition campaign in advance of March 17 election

By Conor Brown, chairman, Rockford Chamber PAC, Inc.

Last month, the Government Affairs Committee of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) announced its opposition to the countywide school facility sales tax on the ballot for March 17. Recognizing that Winnebago County residents and visitors already pay some of the highest combined sales tax rates in the region, the Rockford Chamber PAC (ROPAC) voted to launch a campaign to raise awareness of the negative impact of this new tax and convince citizens to vote “no.”

Simultaneously, the government affairs committee of the NorthWest Illinois Alliance of REALTORS® (NWIAR), of which I serve as CEO, has taken a similar position in opposition of the 1% increase to the sales tax in Winnebago County. To leverage the strength of our two organizations, NWIAR is supporting ROCPAC’s opposition campaign.

Here’s why we oppose another sales tax increase:

It’s not the only option. A countywide 1% sales tax increase represents one policy choice among several available financing tools, including phased bonding, debt service extensions, and hybrid approaches that could distribute costs over time rather than concentrating costs in a single permanent sales tax increase with no guardrails.

Higher sales taxes strain business operations. If businesses struggle, downsize, or leave properties vacant, it causes a shift in the property tax burden to residential homeowners. And job losses or reduced employment further compound housing instability.

There’s no end date. The proposed 1% increase includes no defined end date, meaning the tax would likely remain in place indefinitely. Without

GRCC is currently accepting nominations for 40 Over 40 and Partner in Education awards. Visit rockfordchamber.com and click the Engagement tab to see a list our recognition programs and nomination timelines.

increases the likelihood your organization earns that validation. Just the act of nominating has value. It forces you to articulate impact. It highlights leaders within your organization. It creates stories you might not otherwise tell.

It also builds unity. Celebrating leaders, volunteers, and outstanding work in your community or profession gives everyone something shared to be proud of. That pride becomes collective instead of competitive.

At the end of 2024, my fellow 40 Under 40 honorees were doing what I did not. They posted thoughtfully on

LinkedIn. They connected with peers across the country. They positioned themselves as national voices in the chamber industry. They leveraged the “award winning” platform.

I’m not convinced it’s too late for me. If anything, I now see the opportunity more clearly. Talking about the honor allows me to shine a light on the Rockford Region. It allows me to encourage younger Chamber executives, and stretch my thought-leader muscles just a bit. After all, ACCE thought I was one of the top 40 in the nation in 2024. And according to them, that’s pretty darn good.

Caitlin Pusateri is COO at GRCC, where she connects strategy to execution and people to purpose. She helped guide the organization through a complex merger and now focuses on strengthening governance, aligning vision, and advancing economic vitality in the Rockford Region. Caitlin is one of only four Certified Chamber Executives (CCE) in Illinois.

a sunset clause, voters lose the opportunity to periodically reassess whether the tax is still necessary, effective, or appropriately managed.

The plan lacks clarity and accountability. There is currently no detailed public plan explaining how money will be spent, how projects would be prioritized, or how outcomes would be measured. This lack of clarity and accountability makes it difficult to evaluate equity, fiscal impact, or long-term effectiveness.

Families and small businesses carry the burden. Winnebago County already faces some of the highest combined sales tax rates in the region. Increasing the sales tax places additional pressure on working families and small businesses, risks reducing consumer spending, and weakens retail competitiveness at a time when affordability is already strained. It makes us less competitive with surrounding states. A countywide sales tax disproportionately impacts lower- and middle-income households and local employers, regardless of their ability to absorb higher costs

and compete with other businesses in nearby states. A blunt approach does not align tax burden with direct benefit and creates unintended ripple effects across the local economy. ROCPAC is using various methods to inform voters on this new tax. Visit the website at ROCPAC.vote to learn more about:

Why this tax increase is not the best option for school facility funding. How this proposition doesn’t allow voters to periodically reassess the tax’s necessity, effectiveness, and revenue management.

Why this tax negatively affects working families and small businesses.

Most of all, I encourage you to vote “no” on the Proposition to Impose County School Sales Tax.

Conor Brown, GRCC Board chairman and chair of ROPAC, Inc., serves as CEO of the NorthWest Alliance of REALTORS®. His expertise in government affairs, tax policy, and the housing industry is vital in supporting the work of the GRCC.

BRANDING A REGION

How Mrs. Claus drew the spotlight

to Rockford

By John Groh, GoRockford

If friends from around the country reached out over the holidays to say they saw Rockford on national television, they were likely watching NBC Nightly News the Saturday before Christmas.

On Dec. 20, 2025, the broadcast’s closing segment, “There’s Good News Tonight,” featured a Rockford holiday tradition: “Mrs. Claus” answering hundreds of letters that children drop off for Santa at a mailbox in Rockford’s City Hall during Stroll on State.

More than two minutes of emotionally resonant coverage on a national platform is a win for any mid-sized U.S. city. This demographic is often overlooked by major media in favor of the pizzazz of metros and the quaintness of small towns. For Rockford, such attention is a significant triumph in the ongoing effort to achieve widespread positive media coverage.

“This mailbox has a direct route to the big guy,” said Rockford’s Mrs. Claus while reading children’s letters.

Rockford’s name, scenes, and people stayed on the screen longer than is typical for such segments, which usually run from a minute and a half to just under two minutes. The extra runtime amplified the impact of the story our GoRockford team works so hard to tell about what and who make this region a great place to live, visit, and invest in.

This piece highlighted the soul of

Rockford. It boosted civic pride and morale. It strengthened our reputation in ways that paid advertising cannot match.

Stories like this don’t end up on national broadcasts by accident.

GoRockford retains a public relations firm that works year-round to identify, shape, and pitch stories that reflect the momentum and character of our region. The Letters to Santa tradition became one such opportunity, with planning and outreach beginning six months before the holiday season.

Just as important was preparation. We ensured high-resolution footage, interviews, and video B-roll were captured locally so producers could see and feel the story without deploying a full production team. In today’s media environment, where travel budgets are tight and staffing is lean, that preparation made the difference.

Following the national broadcast, the Letters to Santa segment aired across NBC-owned and affiliated stations through standard network syndication. The segment also ran online across NBC News digital platforms and was widely distributed on major partner sites, including Yahoo, Currently, NewsBreak, and YouTube.

Collectively, the online placements generated over 447 million monthly unique

visitors, while the broadcast airings delivered national television viewership across NBC Nightly News, NBC News Daily, Early Today, and Kids Edition, including extensive affiliate distribution nationwide.

This piece reframed the city’s narrative as a place worth knowing more about and rooting for.

At GoRockford, reshaping our region’s narrative is intentional work. Through strategic earned media and national public relations outreach, we work year-round to ensure stories that reflect our momentum and character reach platforms that matter. When respected outlets choose to tell

Rockford’s story, it builds credibility and helps replace outdated perceptions with a more accurate, forward-looking reality.

We know people make decisions about where to visit, live, and invest based on emotional impressions. This story planted a seed for all the above.

The video clip is on YouTube. I encourage you to find it, watch it, and share it with your connections.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

John Groh serves as president/CEO of GoRockford, guiding efforts to grow tourism, build community pride, and share Rockford’s story with the world.

PURPOSEDRIVEN NETWORKING

Tips on building relationships that matter

By Danielle N. DeDario, Rockford Community Bank

My husband says I have no fear when it comes to getting up on a stage in front of people or introducing myself to a top executive. But I am absolutely fearful. However, my desire to make a difference for others and my drive to succeed outweigh that fear. My WHY is stronger than my fear. Yes, I had to practice and build confidence. I started attending events by myself to be sure I would meet someone new. Sometimes, I set out to meet everyone in the room. And other times, I focused on interacting with a small group of people. Every time, I learned something new and made a connection. That’s how I built my strong—and still growing—network. It has opened doors I didn’t even know existed. Here’s my advice on how to build your personal and professional brand through purpose-driven networking: Build relationships. Don’t rely on elevator speeches. This isn’t traditional advice, and some corporate types would definitely scold me for saying this. Relationships will lead to better outcomes for you professionally and personally. Start having actual conversations, e.g., “We haven’t met yet, and I love meeting new people. Tell me a little about yourself and what brought you here.” If you overhear a conversation where you can add benefit, acknowledge it: “You mentioned the rate on your SBA loan skyrocketed. I’d love to answer any questions you have and share guidance as my bank is the #1 SBA lender in the state.” Remember,

everyone in the room is also a human and prefers being treated like one.

Set clear networking goals. Unfortunately, you can’t attend every event. Choose events where you’ll be around people you want to meet and that help you support a mission or make an impact. Events hosted by local chambers and professional organizations help you maximize your time by attracting like-minded individuals.

Always follow up. You worked hard at that networking event, so make follow up connections with the people you met. You’ll capture business and career opportunities, increase visibility, create new initiatives, find new interests, and make new friends.

Pay it forward. Add value by helping others make connections, sharing insight, getting involved in professional organizations, serving on boards, or volunteering.

Maintain an active presence. Whether it’s in-person events, on social media, or via email and phone, consistency over time builds your brand and shows you’re available to help others.

Be YOU. You are amazing, and you’ll continue to evolve as your network does. Always leave a room better than when you entered, and you’ll be paid back in ways greater than you think.

How do you start?

• Reach out to one person that you want to meet or that can be your next customer. Pick one event, conference,

fundraiser per quarter to meet new people or strengthen a current relationship. Call me and we’ll meet for coffee. I learned from another strong business woman in our region to never say no to a cup of coffee with someone.

I’m glad I get to share my advice with you. I encourage you to put on

a good necklace (or tie) and join me for some semi-fearless networking at GRCC’s many connection events. I’m looking forward to meeting you!

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Danielle (Dani) N. DeDario, MBA, is vice president, senior business banking relationship manager at Rockford Community Bank with 20 years in bank-related leadership. Her passion for helping businesses achieve efficiency, growth, cash flow optimization, strategic initiatives, and maximized financial security is seen throughout her extensive network.

CONSIDERING A MARKETING FIRM?

How to prepare, what to expect, and how to evaluate results

By Lori Wallace, KMK Media Group, Inc.

Marketing is a crucial aspect of business growth, no matter what your company size or length of time in business. It can become overwhelming and potentially frustrating if what you’re doing isn’t working or you feel confused over numerous media channels, tactics, and “experts” offering advice.

Even if you’ve been in business for a long time or have an in-house marketing team, it can help to have an outside perspective, especially if you don’t have experts on your team in all aspects of marketing.

An experienced, well-run marketing agency can help you define goals and the corresponding best marketing tactics focused on results.

Be Prepared for These Questions

Spend time thinking about how you’ll answer questions like:

Who is the target audience?

What problems need solving?

Who are your main competitors?

How is your product or service different from your competitors?

How is ROI measured: leads, sales, bookings, awareness, etc.?

The hidden (and sometimes assumed) question is: Do you have a budget?

Some marketing firms will provide hourly consulting services and let the business owner or marketing manager decide which elements they feel they can handle in-house and which ones they need to outsource to help guarantee results. Marketing solutions can range from website enhancements to direct mail, social media to public relations, and email marketing to video production and beyond.

Marketing work can be billed hourly, by the project, or on an on-going retainer basis, depending on the length of time required and the quantity of work.

What to Expect

Check references on the marketing firm’s website and social media accounts. Look for a marketing partner with a strong track record and ask questions about frequency of communication and how projects are managed and tracked. You should receive clear deadlines and reporting timelines. Also ask how overages are handled.

A marketing firm will look at a business’s entire brand picture, helping

ensure your company is projecting a consistent message, tone, look, and feel across all media channels while telling your company’s story and value in a compelling way.

A well-run firm will recommend strategies that fit your budget and will focus on what works rather than relying on intuition or trends, emphasizing steady momentum and long-term progress. When the partnership is a good fit, it becomes an extension of your team—providing clarity, consistency, and measurable progress.

Measuring Marketing Success

The goal of a well-managed marketing program is to generate meaningful results and measurable outcomes, such as more inquiries, more bookings, higher conversion rates, or stronger

community recognition. A good agency will track performance, share results, and make recommendations for adjustments to the campaign.

Your internal team needs to track sales and the origin of leads, helping identify where and how those leads came in.

That helps your marketing firm assess how best to move forward and maximize the impact of your marketing dollars.

The marketing firm relationship should evolve into one of mutual benefit and trust. As a result, marketing stops feeling like a burden and becomes a powerful, exciting, and even enjoyable tool for business growth.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Lori Wallace is a project manager at KMK Media Group, Inc., a Rockford-based firm providing marketing services to regional business sectors including government, healthcare, manufacturing, education, service, entertainment, construction, finance, and nonprofit.

FROM CLASSROOM TO COMMUNITY

How internships help students build futures close to home

By Heather Cunningham, Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, and Rachel Thomann, FurstProfessionals

The divide between the classroom and the workplace can feel wide for the next generation of Rockford-area workers.

Yet local businesses hold a powerful key—helping young adults gain real-world experience that encourages them to build careers and futures right here at home.

For many communities, one of the biggest challenges isn’t attracting new residents—it’s keeping the young people who already call the area home. Students leave for college or training opportunities and often don’t return, taking their skills, energy, and future leadership potential with them. Internships, however, are proving to be one of the most effective tools for reversing that trend and building strong local talent pipelines.

At their core, internships create connection. When students gain realworld experience with local employers, they don’t just learn job skills—they build relationships. Mentors, supervisors, coworkers, and clients become part of their professional network long before graduation. That sense of belonging matters. A student who knows local business owners by name and understands how local organizations operate is far more likely to imagine a future for themselves in that community.

For over a decade, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) and FurstStaffing have partnered to offer local internships as part of the Howard D. Colman Scholarship Program. To qualify for the scholarship, recipients must be willing to accept full-time summer internships through CFNIL and make a good faith effort to return to the Rockford area after graduation. And the program is paying

dividends for interns and employers.

“Our interns definitely taught us more than we could have hoped to teach them,” said Mike Crandall, president and owner of Crandall Stats and Sensors. “I only hope their experience with us was enough to compensate them for everything they brought to Crandall Stats and Sensors.”

Russell Dennis Jr., president and CTO of Leading Edge Hydraulics, has supported the program since its inception. “By engaging some of the brightest STEM students in our region through various continuous-improvement projects, we’re able to advance our efforts as an organization while giving students the opportunity to begin the very critical journey of experiential learning,” he said. “It helps them sharpen their areas of interest and sets them apart from their classmates through the work experience they gain.”

While experience and advanced studies can be hallmarks of an ideal job candidate, companies often find value in working with new talent—students who are curious and eager to learn.

“The Colman Scholars participating in Bergstrom’s summer internship program have shown a high level of readiness and professionalism,” said Andrew Hall, senior manager of HR at Bergstrom, “They work hard, adapt quickly and contribute meaningful, high-quality work, making them a strong talent pipeline for our organization.”

We all have someone who encouraged us and pushed us toward our goals. For students fortunate enough to be welcomed into a local company, that support system expands dramatically. Being given a safe place to learn, while

Heather Cunningham serves as the scholarship and In Youth We Trust (IYWT) officer at the CFNIL. She administers scholarship programs, awarding over half a million dollars annually, and fosters youth philanthropy through work with teens from across CFNIL’s four county-service area.

surrounded by people who are passionate about the industry they hope to enter, can be a life-changing experience. Some students walk away more certain than ever of their career path. Others discover an unexpected passion, because an internship opened their eyes to something they never knew existed. Either way, our students tell us that the scholarship helped them financially, but the internship helped shape who they are today.

“I always knew that my heart wanted to be home, and I will be returning to Rockford for my final internship … Without these internship opportunities, I and many others would not be able

to come to Rockford. The truth is, providing opportunities for budding engineers helps not only the intern and the company but the city of Rockford and everyone in between,” said Hannah Jacobson, a 2023 HDC Scholar.

For more information about how your organization can benefit from hosting an intern, contact Rachel Thomann, vice president of FurstProfessionals.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Rachel Thomann, SHRM-CP, is the vice president of FurstProfessionals at FurstStaffing in Rockford. She leads the technical/professional division and assists companies with everything from strategic HR support to recruitment and workforce planning. As a CFNIL partner, she helps place Howard D. Colman Scholarship recipients in internships.

ROCKFORD REGION CELEBRATES

In 2026, the United States commemorates a historic milestone, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Rockford Region is proud to join the nation in celebrating this semiquincentennial with a full year of special events, cultural programming, and community experiences. To learn more, visit rockfordil.gov or gorockford.com/america-250

Community Support and Sponsors

The local 250th anniversary celebration is made possible through the generous financial support of community partners and organizations. We’d like to recognize the following Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce members for their support of this celebration.

• Bergstrom Bill Doran Company

Bucciferro Family Management

Collins Aerospace

Forest City Gear

Hennig, Inc.

IBEW Local 364

Meiborg

Midwest Packaging

• Northwestern Illinois Contractors Association

Northern Illinois Building

Contractors Association

OSF HealthCare

Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 23

Ringland-Johnson Construction

Rockford University

Urban Equity Properties

• UW Health

• Waldom Electronics

RIBBON CUTTINGS

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Derrick Wilson (1), co-founder of WD Synergy Solutions, joined the board of Sustain Rockford

The Northern Illinois Building Contractors Association Board of Directors elected Jake Dykstra, Cord Construction Company, as president for 2026-2027; Joseph Scandroli Jr., Scandroli Construction Company, as chairman; and Nathan Heinrich, Rockford Structures Construction Company, as treasurer.

The Rock River Valley Tooling & Machining Association, appointed Mitch Koepp of All World Machinery Supply as director of public relations.

The Rockford Public Library appointed Michael Laskonis (2) to its board of trustees.

Alexis Wright Conniff, senior director, associate general counsel, Aerospace, Global Legal & Compliance at Woodward, Inc., was appointed to the Crusader Community Health Foundation Board of Directors.

Fehr Graham announced the following promotions:

• Tina Dettman (3), ACEA, executive project administrator

• Kathy Kummer (4), pursuits specialist

• Raylene Grose (5), pursuits specialist.

• Chris DeSilva (6), PE, Central Region business unit leader

• Derek Thompson (7), PE, West Region business unit leader

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Natural Land Institute welcomed Kyle Hulbert (8) as its new director of land stewardship.

Trevonne Thompson (9), MD, MHPE, FACMT, was named regional dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford (UICOMR), effective March 16, 2026, pending University of Illinois Board of Trustees approval. Thompson assumes the role from Alex Stagnaro-Green, MD, MHPE, MHA, who is stepping down after 12 years as the Rockford regional dean.

Aqua-Aerobic Systems announced the following employee promotions:

• Nate Haug (10), contract engineering manager

Tom Kubalewski (11), contract engineering supervisor

• Monica Alfano (12), senior marketing specialist

• Michaela Villarreal (13), aftermarket sales manager

• Noah Dellamater (14), engineering product supervisor

• Luke Enser (15), design standards supervisor

• Mike Spragg (16), senior technical support specialist

Reno & Zahm LLP welcomed attorney Victor M. Zamora (17) as partner and three new associates: Abigail P. Sissel (18), Timothy M. Scordato (19), and Arabella L. Gigliotti (20)

Diego Lopez (21) accepted the position of vice president of Outpatient and Ancillary Services, at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center. Stillman Bank welcomed Kelly Pospischil (22) as a commercial lender.

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company hired Judi Betancourt (23), marketing representativeMichigan; Paul Claussen (24), marketing representative-Indiana; and Roger Bendorf, casualty specialist. RMIC also promoted Tiffany Herron (25) to chief financial officer and vice president of accounting, Aaron Powers (26) to assistant vice president of accounting, and Paige Frey (27) to farm underwriter.

Mercyhealth welcomed Amina Adil (28), MD, board certified advanced imaging cardiologist, to Mercyhealth Heart and Vascular Center, 8201 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford; and Clio Musurakis (29), MD, board certified endocrinologist, and Denise Dalmacion (30), MD, board certified internal medicine doctor, to the staff at Mercyhealth Alpine, 7702 N. Alpine Rd., Loves Park.

Fehr Graham hired Lucas Achilli (31) as engineering technician and promoted Kim Payne (32) to pursuits specialist.

Financial Advisor Erna Colborn (33), Edward Jones in Rockford, received the Certified Exit Planning Advisor®, or CEPA®, designation through the Exit Planning Institute.

Two Keith Country Day School students, Morgan Gates and Lilli Klinger (34), were chosen to perform with the Honors Performance Series Choir at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Amy Young (35), director of nursing at Rosecrance Behavioral Health, was named a Frontline Honoree in Behavioral Health, recognizing leaders who are redefining frontline care and making a lasting impact on patients, families, and communities.

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) congratulates Fred Muehlfelder (36), funeral director and GRCC Ambassador, on receiving the

Legacy of Service Award from the Blackhawk Area Council, a charter of the Boy Scouts of America. This honor recognizes Fred’s leadership, service, and lifelong dedication to the community.

The Rockford Area Arts Council (above) announced the winners of the Poetry Out Loud Regional Competition. Representing East High School, Aminah Givens took first place, and representing Jefferson High School, Mikiah Gerrity took second place. Both will advance to Illinois’ State Poetry Out Loud Competition.

OrthoIllinois Injury Express, under the leadership of Manoj Sreedharan (37), MD, was named a 2025 Press Ganey Human Experience Pinnacle of Excellence Award® and Guardian of Excellence Award® winner, placing OrthoIllinois orthopedic care service in the top 5% of healthcare providers nationwide for patient experience.

GoRockford announced a new three-year presenting partnership with UMB Bank for Stroll on State, securing the future of the beloved holiday festival through 2028.

The Rockford Housing Authority’s (RHA) new standard operating hours are Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. RHA offices will be closed on Fridays.

OrthoIllinois was named the #2 Orthopedic Practice in Illinois in the 2026 Castle Connolly Accolades. This honor recognizes top medical practices delivering exceptional patient care and clinical excellence.

RAMP Disability Resources & Services was awarded a grant through Healing Illinois, a statewide initiative of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), managed in partnership with the Field Foundation. The grant will support RAMP’s efforts to advance racial healing and equity through community-centered programming.

Rosecrance Behavioral Health maintained its Joint Commission accreditation. The Joint Commission accreditation survey evaluates strict standards for behavioral health treatment centers.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford presented the Oscar Mike Foundation with a $2,000 check to support disabled veterans who engage in adaptive sports.

KMK Media earned a national Education Digital Marketing Award for its design of Hononegah High School’s digital annual report.

Mercyhealth’s Rockford MD-1 Emergency Response Program physicians saw 597 responses or requests for service in 2025, a more than a 20% increase over the number of responses in 2024. Mercyhealth also hired two more MD-1 physicians to add to the Rockford program, taking the total number of physicians to four.

Digital Hive Mind Multimedia Designer Bradley Maytez earned his FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107), enabling the agency to officially offer aerial photography and videography services to clients. The certification allows Digital Hive Mind to safely and legally operate drones for commercial use.

OSF HealthCare is strengthening its medical assistant workforce with an immersive trainee program that hires participants first, then trains them through a combination of classroom learning, simulations, and hands-on clinic experience.

Trekk won the 2025 MUSE Creative Award for Outstanding Independent Agency and two awards for Executing Groundbreaking Creativity in Client Campaigns for Sylvamo and Canon USA.

Chartwell Agency recently partnered with OrthoIllinois to develop a new television commercial focused on helping patients envision life after pain. The agency also partnered with Foresight Financial Group, Inc., a northern Illinois–based financial holding company, to successfully complete a major consolidation of its six community banks into a single charter and unified brand.

The Rockford Park District’s 2026 Summer Camps Guide is now available. Printed versions can be picked up at UW Health Sports Factory in downtown Rockford, Carlson Ice Arena in Loves Park, and in limited quantities at many other Park District facilities.

The Natural Land Institute’s Legacy Tree Program February Tree of the Month is a Black Cherry at R. Robert Funderburg Forest Preserve, 4551 S. Meridian Rd., Rockford.

A newly released report from Region 1 Planning Council (R1) addresses the complex factors that affect the Rockford region’s water quality. The Our Water’s Health in the Rockford Region report lays out the state of local water sources so that environmental professionals and the public alike can better protect this natural resource. Learn more at r1planning.org/planning/water.

First Mid Bank & Trust (First Mid) was recognized on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Banks, earning a ranking of #2 in Illinois and #24 nationwide for 2026. The annual list, compiled by Forbes in partnership with S&P Global Market Intelligence, evaluates U.S. banks based on key financial performance measures, including growth, credit quality, and profitability.

Forest City Gear, an industry-leading manufacturer of fine- and medium-pitch custom gears, is excited to announce the purchase of a DMG MORI CTX Beta 450 TC, a significant investment that marks a major step forward in the company’s turning and milling capabilities.

NEW MEMBERS MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

BLUES PRESSURE WASHING

Location(s): Rockford

Online at: Bluespowerwashing.com

What we do: We provide pressure washing services for residential and commercial customers.

Our customers/ideal referrals: Homeowners, property managers, and business owners who take pride in clean, well-maintained properties.

CONTOUR CONSULTING GROUP

Location(s): Janesville and across the Stateline area

Online at: contourconsultinggroup. com and facebook.com/ contourconsultinggroup

What we do: We meet you where your business is, identify the best path forward, and guide you through our strategic success systems, with local summit events available for every level and support.

Our customers/ideal referrals: Entrepreneurs, small to midsize businesses, or nonprofits seeking strategic planning, leadership development, operational alignment, and guided growth from idea-stage to scaling with structured, CEO-level support and clarity.

CYBERNINES

Location(s): Nationwide, headquarters in Madison, WI

Online at: cybernines.com

What we do: CyberNINES, an authorized C3PAO and SDVOSB, secures the Defense Industrial Base through expert CMMC Level 2 assessments and comprehensive, end-to-end consulting services delivered nationwide.

Our customers/ideal referrals: We support organizations across the Defense Industrial Base and federal supply chain that must comply with CMMC and other governmentmandated cybersecurity regulations.

LRS

Location(s): Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Minnesota

Online at: facebook.com/LRSrecycles

What we do: LRS provides waste and recycling collection, construction debris management, material recovery processing, and portable restroom solutions for municipalities, businesses, and job sites while promoting safety, sustainability, and community impact across the Midwest.

Our customers/ideal referrals: Municipal leaders, property managers, contractors, developers, facility operators, event planners, and businesses seeking reliable waste, recycling, and portable restroom solutions who value safety, sustainability, and responsive service partnerships.

PRO RESTORATION LLC

Location(s): Machesney Park (serving Rockford, Winnebago County, Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin)

Online at: pro-restorationllc.com

What we do: Trusted roofing authority specializing in commercial and residential systems, including TPO, EPDM, metal, and asphalt shingles, plus comprehensive exterior and building envelope restoration.

Our customers/ideal referrals: Property owners, managers, business owners, and homeowners needing quality exterior work; roof replacements, siding replacements, gutter systems, comprehensive storm restoration, or repairs.

Thank you to our members who renewed their investment with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce in January 2026.

J & M Plating, Inc.

Market Dimensions, Inc.

BMO

Campos

Comcast

Gehrke Construction, General Contractors

Global Recruiters Network of the Stateline (GRN Stateline)

Midwest Packaging and Container

Papa’s Garage

Paul Davis

Rock Valley College Foundation

Rock Valley Credit Union

Savant Wealth Management

Workplace

YWCA Northwestern Illinois

The following companies are celebrating milestone membership anniversaries with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce in March 2026

30 Years

Rockford Rescue Mission Ministries

25 Years

Shogun Japanese Restaurant Izakaya 88

15 Years

Ameriprise Financial - Studio Wealth Advisory Group

10 Years Birch Plumbing Inc.

5 Years Engineering Enterprises, Inc. OfficePro

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce welcomes member submissions for the VOICE. Deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication date. Send news releases and people announcements to editor@rockfordchamber.com. For information about advertising contact customer service at 815-987-8100.

The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community (USPS 784-120). ISSN number 1086-0630, is published monthly by the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 350, Rockford, Illinois 61101. Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101.

GRCC EVENTS ADVERTISERS INDEX

MARCH 5: RETHINKING ABILITY IN THE WORKPLACE

1:30 - 2:30 p.m., GRCC Office, 308 W State St, Suite 190, Rockford Presented by RAMP Disability Resources & Services

This workshop is designed to help HR and business professionals increase their awareness of how unconscious bias, stereotypes, and ableism can influence workplace decisions related to hiring, supervision, promotion, and accommodations. Through guided reflection, participants learn to distinguish between assumptions about disability and an individual’s actual skills and potential, strengthening their ability to make objective, equitable, and legally defensible employment decisions. The workshop reinforces ADA principles and equips employers to reduce risk while fostering a more inclusive, high-performing workplace.

MARCH 10: ECONOMIC OUTLOOK ON TAP

3-5 p.m., Prairie Street Brewing Co, 200 Prairie St, Rockford Co-hosted by the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, Rockford University, and Northwest Illinois Alliance of REALTORS

A panel of local experts in economics, finance, housing, and trade will share insights on trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the economy—and what to expect in 2026. This event offers timely perspectives to help businesses and community leaders plan for the year ahead in a relaxed, approachable setting. Cash bar with appetizers provided.

Registration closes March 5.

MARCH 26: CELEBRATION

OF LEADERSHIP

10 a.m., UMB Bank Pavilion, 1868 Reid Farm Rd, Rockford Sponsored by Mr. Goodwater

Celebrate the 71st cohort of the Leadership Rockford program with coworkers and friends. After months of exploring what makes the Rockford Region unique, the 2025/2026 Leadership Rockford graduates embrace their roles as community leaders. (Note: All LR graduates receive a complimentary seat for this event and are not required to register.)

Registration closes March 19.

MARCH 31: COFFEE & CONNECTIONS

8:30 a.m., GRCC Office, 308 W. State St., Suite 190, Rockford

GRCC STAFF

CHAMBER OFFICE 815-987-8100

Angela Kay Larson, Chief Executive Officer

Caitlin Pusateri, Chief Operating Officer

Melissa Adams, Operations Manager

DIRECT LINE

815-987-8100

815-316-4337

815-316-4312

Everett Butzine, VP Business Expansion and Attraction 920-203-3859

Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology

Christine Hand, Managing Editor, the VOICE

Alex Keedi, Business Development Manager

Carmen Kellerman, Events Manager

Michael Lacny, Director of Sales and Service

Kristin Muehlfelder, Member Operations Specialist

815-316-4338

815-988-3354

815-316-4310

815-316-4302

815-494-6476

815-316-4315

Jessica Prath, Membership Operations jprath@rockfordchamber.com

GRCC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Conor Brown NorthWest Illinois Alliance of Realtors Chair

Wendy Alsteen Hard Rock Casino Vice Chair

Coffee & Connections is your monthly morning boost of meaningful networking. Designed with small businesses and entrepreneurs in mind, this meetup helps you make new contacts, find potential partners, and expand your visibility within the regional business community. It’s low-pressure, high-ROI, and a great way to start your day with conversations that matter. No speakers, no agenda — just genuine connection and great coffee from Ivy House Creative Café.

Registration closes March 27.

APRIL 1: ICEBREAKERS NETWORKING NIGHT

5:15 p.m., BMO Center, 300 Elm St, Rockford

Join local chambers of commerce from Rockford, Belvidere, and The Parks at the Rockford IceHogs game on April 1 for our annual IceBreakers Networking Night. Meet local businessowners and champions of the area, while enjoying an exhilarating night of IceHogs hockey at the BMO Center with your coworkers and friends. Your ticket gives you access to the IceBreakers Networking Event in the exclusive Martin Exteriors Rooftop Club, along with light snacks, nonalcoholic beverages, and a cash bar.

Registration close morning of event.

APRIL 16: ROCKFORD MAYOR’S BUSINESS ADDRESS

8:30 a.m., RPL Nordlof Center, 118 N Main St., Rockford

Registration closes April 9.

Nate Jordan Illinois Small Business Development Center Treasurer

Lesly Couper Workplace

Immediate Past Chair

DIRECTORS

Travis Andersen UW Health Northern Illinois Region

David Anspaugh

Northern Illinois Building Contractors Assoc.

Dietmar Goellner Advanced Machine & Engineering/Hennig

Alec Grabowski OSF Healthcare

Thomas Green Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP

Troy Haggestad WilliamsMcCarthy LLP

Sheila Hill

Think Big Corporation

Jeff Hultman

Foresight Financial Group

Carly LaMonica LaMonica Beverages, Inc.

Roger Raley Waldom Electronics

Peter Schmeling Schmeling Contruction Co.

Jose Solorzano Solorzano & Associates Agency LLC

Alexis Wright Conniff Woodward

Kika Young Forest City Gear

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Mayor Tom McNamara City of Rockford

Gina Caronna The Workforce Connection

Michael Dunn, Jr. Region 1

John Groh GoRockford

Angela Kay Larson Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce