ROCKFORD – In the last two years, Rockford has seen a steady increase of small businesses opening in the area. These local businesses that are popping up mainly downtown add to the appeal of the city’s already rich history. With more opportunities presenting themselves, people are more inclined to take different paths and take the risk of opening a business by themselves for the sake of doing their own thing. 

“We’ve seen all types of retail to service and restaurant businesses growing,” Says Skyler Davis, owner of Culture Shock Clothing and Records.

Over the span of roughly two years, the city has seen a spike of 20% in businesses associated with The Small Business Development Center, most likely due to residents looking for secondary source of income and better overall job security.

“Take the time to support the small businesses around you” said Joshua Binning, owner of the local Lucha Cantina restaurant. “If you don’t they might just go away,”

(Compiled from 13WREX, original reporting by Lauren Baker)