Economic Development
Expand & Locate
Recent Success
The region’s economic momentum is clear: companies are upgrading operations, reactivating idled plants, and bringing new jobs and infrastructure online. The following are some of the most notable recent expansions and business developments that illustrate why Rockford is attractive to a wide range of industries.
| Rockford Brake Manufacturing | Rockford Brake Manufacturing will reopen the former Gunite plant with a $6.6 million investment, restoring 150 jobs and reviving Rockford’s historic brake manufacturing legacy |
| Hennig Inc | Expansion - New Facility - 3rd Expansion in 4 years - Tripling the amount of manufacturing floor space from three years ago. |
| Air Liquide | Company located to Rockford MSA - Partnered with local AirGas to build largest biomethane production unit in the world. |
| Woodward Aerospace | $55M Investment and completion of Aerospace Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Facility Transformation - The investment will enable our site to meet continued growth in demand from aircraft equipment makers |
| Collins Aerospace - The GRID | $50M Investment into next Gen Hybrid Propulsion Engines - "The GRID" |
| Stellantis | The Belvidere Assembly Plant, a currently idled automobile production facility, will reopen in 2027 to build Jeep Cherokees and Compasses. Stellantis North America, who own and operate the plant, announced in October 2025 that they are investing $600 million in restarting production at the facility. |
Explore Site Opportunities
Why Illinois
Relentlessly Growing a Thriving Business Community
Contact the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Team today to learn how we can support your business success.
Terrance Hall
thall@rockfordchamber.com
Phone: 815.316.4310