GoRockford (formerly Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau) is pleased to announce the second round of grant recipients for the Restaurant Grant Program, designed to alleviate financial pressure from unemployment taxes accrued as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 30 restaurants have been awarded the grants in this round, distributing $195,811.20 in much-needed financial relief to local establishments.
“Supporting our community and our local businesses, especially those that were hit hardest during the pandemic, has been one of my top priorities,” said Illinois State Representative Maurice West, who secured the state-funded grants for Rockford and Winnebago County restaurants. “I believe these continued grants will play a vital role in sustaining our local economy, keeping workers employed, and preserving the unique dining experiences the Rockford region has to offer.”
The largest single grant amount awarded is $30,443.77 for a restaurant that was new to the program, while the smallest grant is $165.88. Of the 30 recipients, five are new applicants to the program, highlighting the continued need for assistance within the local restaurant industry.
The following restaurants were awarded grants in the second round:
- 27 Aluna @ Octane
- Alchemy at Aldeen/Gio Events
- Alpine View Restaurant
- Broadway Joe's (Dusty Boots Saloon)
- District Bar and Grill
- Famous Dave's Rockford
- Franchesco's Ristorante
- Golden Corral
- Greenfire Restaurant & Bakery
- Hoffman House
- Hope & Anchor English Pub
- Joe's Casa Di Amici
- Johnny Pamcakes
- Johnny Pamcakes Too
- John's Restaurant
- Lucha Cantina
- Mary's Market
- Murphey's Pub & Grill
- Onyx Bar & Grill
- Oscar's Pub & Grill
- Pig Minds
- Prairie Street Brewhouse
- Rookie's Pub & Grill
- Stockyard Rock Burger Bar/Half Baked
- Tad's Bar & Grill
- Tavern on Clark
- Thai Hut Restaurant
- The Norwegian
- The Olympic Tavern
- The Pomodoro
John Groh, President of GoRockford, expressed the importance of the Restaurant Grant Program, “Restaurants are vital to the character and economy of Rockford, and many continue to face challenges in the wake of the pandemic. Our grant program offers critical support, allowing them to reinvest in their operations and staff. We’re proud to provide this relief and help sustain the vibrant local dining scene.”
Administered by RACVB and secured by Illinois State Representative Maurice West, the grants were awarded to eligible restaurants 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 need and their role in enhancing the Rockford region's culinary offerings. All eligible applicants that applied and met all criteria were awarded grants.
In the first round of funding, state-funded grants totaling $469,475.35 were awarded to 33 local businesses. A third round of applications for grant funding is anticipated to be announced in January 2025.
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.