Rockford, IL – The River District Association, in partnership with the City of Rockford, is launching a new Downtown Business Signage Program designed to help small businesses enhance their visibility and attract more customers. Through this initiative, participating businesses will receive professionally designed blade signs and A-frame sidewalk signs, increasing their exposure to both pedestrians and motorists.
The River District Association is providing 70% of the funding for the program, with selected businesses contributing the remaining 30% match. Applications open on March 18, 2025, and the program aims to have signage installed by Memorial Day weekend. Signs Now Rockford is partnering with the River District to design, create, and install the signs, offering discounted services to support the program’s launch and help downtown businesses enhance their visibility.
“One of the biggest challenges for many downtown businesses is visibility,” said John Groh, River District Board President. “This program directly addresses that issue by providing high-quality, eye-catching signage that will help drive foot traffic and create a more vibrant and welcoming atmosphere downtown. We’re excited to partner with the City of Rockford and Signs Now to bring this initiative to life.”
Eligible businesses must be members of the River District Association, commit to the 30% cost-share, and demonstrate how the signage will improve their visibility. The program will prioritize a diverse mix of business types and locations, ensuring a broad economic impact throughout the district.
Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara praised the collaboration, stating, “Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and we are always looking for ways to support their success. This signage program is a simple yet impactful way to help them thrive while also enhancing the overall look and feel of downtown Rockford.”
Garret Rapp, project manager with Signs Now Rockford, said, “We’re proud to support this initiative by providing in-kind services to help downtown businesses stand out. Quality signage boosts visibility and foot traffic, and this program is a great investment in Rockford’s small business community.”
Applications: the application period runs from March 18 to April 8, 2025, with selections announced by April 16. Businesses can apply online at www.riverdistrict.com.
For updates and details on the Downtown Business Signage Program, visit RiverDistrict.com or follow the River District on Facebook and Instagram.
Media Contact: Andrea Cook, River District Association, andrea@riverdistrict.com, 815.319.9353