Forward Janesville is excited to release the latest edition of the FJI Report—our quarterly magazine that showcases the people, businesses, and ideas shaping Janesville and Rock County’s future.
This issue centers on a question many in our community are asking: How do local businesses see Janesville’s future—and what will it take to keep our momentum moving forward?
READ THE FULL ISSUE HERE
At the heart of the magazine is a feature story informed by Forward Janesville’s first-ever Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) Survey, which gathered insights from 50 local employers representing more than 11,000 workers. The data reveals strong optimism and confidence, with many businesses planning to hire, expand and continue investing locally. At the same time, employers are candid about the challenges ahead — particularly workforce readiness and housing availability — that must be addressed to sustain long-term growth.
Through the voices of local leaders, manufacturers, developers and economic development partners, the feature explores why companies are choosing to stay and grow in Janesville, how the community has evolved since the loss of its largest employer nearly two decades ago, and what must happen next to unlock Janesville’s full economic potential.
Beyond the cover story, this issue highlights the people and moments that make Forward Janesville’s work possible. Readers will find a look back at the 2025 Forward Janesville Annual Dinner and the Forward Janesville Golf Outing, celebrating connection, collaboration and community.
The magazine also features a new installment of “How Did I Get Here?” with Greg Phillips—Dean Emeritus at Blackhawk Technical College and Forward Janesville’s new Workforce Development Coordinator—sharing his journey and vision for aligning education with employer needs.
You’ll also find a thank-you to our Champions Club-level investors, spotlights on three dedicated volunteers who champion business growth, an infographic outlining Key Steps for Community-Centered Economic Development, and a warm welcome to 36 new member businesses that recently joined Forward Janesville.
Together, these stories reflect a community that is growing with purpose and working collaboratively to shape what comes next. We invite you to explore the latest FJI Report and see how momentum, data and people are coming together to move Janesville forward.