Partners & Sponsors

RRVEC is funded through a state grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. It is also supported and sponsored by Rock Valley College and Northern Illinois University.

Who Supports Us

“One of the greatest sources of job creation over the last several years has come from small businesses and start-up companies, so it’s essential that we continue encouraging entrepreneurship to bring even more jobs to the Rock River Valley. By bringing in new companies, making strategic investments to help small businesses grow and taking innovative steps to open new markets, we are providing the tools to create better jobs across the region. The Rock River Valley Entrepreneurship Center is helping us turn promising ideas into promising companies that are putting more people to work.”

-Rod Blagojevich | Governor, State of Illinois

“The Rock River Valley E-Center has played a critical role in helping young firms with high growth potential develop into economically viable and sustainable companies that will grow and create jobs across the region. We’ve done our homework in studying the strengths and challenges of growing a small business, and this center is designed to offer targeted services most in need by local entrepreneurs, including access to capital, markets, networks and technology.”

-Jack Lavin | Director, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

“As part of our commitment to education and career development, as well as the economic stability of the region, Rock Valley College is proud to partner with the State of Illinois and our area leaders in the opportunities available through the Rock River Valley Entrepreneurship Center. The Entrepreneurship Center reaches out to constituents with the conviction, creativity, and passion to build a successful business. Their success directly contributes to the vitality of our region. It is an honor to play a role in our entrepreneurs’ achievement.”

-Dr. Jack Becherer | President, Rock Valley College          

“I would like to applaud Governor Blagojevich for launching the Illinois Entrepreneurship Network and the Rock River Valley E-Center. Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy, and have been a key factor in our continued economic success. This additional funding will help turn new ideas into added companies, which means more jobs for our citizens.”

-Larry Morrissey | Mayor, Rockford, IL

"The entrepreneurship center, in collaboration with our other regional partners has been invaluable in assisting several regional businesses with growth planning needs."

-Steve Bois | Northern Stateline Region Manager

Partners

Key individuals and organizations comprise our Board & Awards Committee and Regional Partners. Click on the links to learn more.