ROCKFORD, IL — GoRockford (formerly Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau) is pleased to announce recipients of its third round of restaurant grants, targeted to local eateries still struggling with high unemployment taxes because of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 51 businesses received grants in this round, sharing $189,871.52 in much-needed financial relief.

“The Restaurant Relief Grant is making a real difference for our local hospitality industry,” said John Groh, President/CEO of GoRockford. “These businesses shape our community identity, spark creativity and create vital jobs. We’re proud to see another round of funding go to the hardworking restaurant, bar, and coffee shop owners whose passion helps Rockford and our region grow, thrive and remain a vibrant place to live and visit.”

The following restaurants received grants in the third round of the program:

  • 27 Aluna @ Octane
  • Abreo Restaurant
  • Alchemy at Aldeen/ Gio events
  • Alpine View Restaurant
  • Broadway Joe's (Dusty Boots Saloon)
  • Carlyle Brewing
  • Casey's Pub
  • Culver's of Winnebago
  • District Bar & Grill
  • Don Carter Lanes
  • Famous Dave's Rockford
  • Forest Hills Lanes
  • Franchesco's Ristorante
  • Golden Corral
  • Greenfire Restaurant & Bakery
  • Hoffman House
  • Hope & Anchor English Pub
  • J. W. Marc's Fusion Café
  • Joe's Casa Di Amici
  • Johnny Pamcakes
  • Johnny Pamcakes Too
  • John's Restaurant
  • LimaMar Restaurant
  • Lucha Cantina
  • Machine Shed
  • Mary's Market
  • Mulligan's of Rockford
  • Murphy's Pub & Grill
  • Onyx Bar & Grill
  • Oscar’s Pub & Grill
  • Park Lanes
  • Pig Minds
  • Pizza Ranch
  • Rookie's Pub & Grill
  • Rusty Nail Tavern
  • Scanlan's
  • Spider Sushi
  • Stockholm Inn
  • Stockyard Rock Burger Bar/Half Baked Bar
  • Tad's Bar & Grill
  • Tavern on Clark
  • Thai Hut Restaurant
  • The Cherry Bowl
  • The Filling Station
  • The Norwegian
  • The Olympic Tavern
  • The Pomodoro
  • Thunderbay Grill
  • Tower Kitchen & Bar
  • Viking Lanes
  • Vintage @501/TacoLibre

Businesses received varying amounts, depending on the impact of COVID to their unemployment tax rates. The largest single grant amount awarded in this round is $21,622.96 to a restaurant that is new to the program. Of the 51 recipients, 17 are new applicants, highlighting the continued need for assistance within the local restaurant industry.

“Rockford’s restaurants, bars and coffee shops are more than just businesses—they’re the heart of our community, “said Illinois State Representative Maurice West. “This grant program provides critical support to help them recover and thrive. I’m proud to see another round of funding go directly to local establishments, ensuring they can continue serving our residents and creating jobs. Investing in our small businesses means investing in the future of Rockford.”

Administered by GoRockford and secured by Illinois State Representative Maurice West, the grants were awarded to eligible businesses in Winnebago County through an application process and professional review panel. The program aims to mitigate the financial strain placed on restaurants due to required unemployment tax payments incurred during shutdowns and staffing shortages. The recipients were selected based on demonstrated eligibility. All eligible applicants that applied and met all criteria were awarded grants.

Across three rounds of funding in 2024 and 2025, the program has awarded a total of $855,158.06 in state-funded grants to 52 local businesses.

For additional information about the Restaurant Relief Grant Program, please visit GoRockford.com/Restaurant-Grant.

About: GoRockford is the official destination marketing and management organization for Rockford and Winnebago County and is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, GoRockford strengthens the economic position of the region and provides opportunities for people in our communities. www.gorockford.com

State Representative Maurice West is serving his third term representing the 67th House District in the Rockford region. A Rockford native, Rep. West serves as Assistant Floor Whip in the 103rd General Assembly.

 

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