Rockforward20/20 Economic Indicators Progress


The current Rockforward20/20 strategy began January 1, 2016 and will now continue through December 31, 2021.

The RAEDC remains committed to collaboration and sustainable growth. We are proactive in cultivating opportunities that increase the economic well-being of our region.

The work of economic development is critical to attracting and retaining jobs while ensuring our community remains a place people want to live and conduct business.

From January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020 the region has reported the following figures towards the Rockforward20/20 progress towards obtaining our goals.

Capital Investment

Current Total: $1,271,141,316
Percentage Towards Goal: 137.4%
Goal: 925,000,000

New and Retained Jobs

Current Total: 7,416
Percentage Towards Goal: 70.6%
Goal: 10,500

New and Renovated Space

Current Total: 5,619,989 sq.ft.
Percentage Towards Goal: 70.2%
Goal: 8,000,000 square feet

We have exceeded the Capital Investment goal and are closing in on the other two goals. The creation of the Greater Rockford Growth Partnership, the unification initiative, means our region has an additional year to reach these three key economic indicators as part of the Rockforward20/20 progress on our strategic plan.

The daily work of economic development is made possible through the support of our investors and is a critical component of creating a business and lifestyle-friendly region that is competitive with our Midwestern neighbors.