Forward Janesville Inc

06/20/2026

"Quality housing plays a big role in workforce stability."

That's the philosophy that guides Kevin Bush of Boomerang Home Rentals. As a Forward Janesville Champions Club member, Kevin helps provide housing solutions that support local families, employees and employers alike.

Learn more about Kevin and the members helping build a stronger Janesville in the latest FJI Report at https://hubs.ly/Q04m4F3n0

06/19/2026

A few months later, we're still reflecting on the incredible success of the 2026 Rock Regional Business Expo.

More than 800 attendees. More than 90 exhibitors. Nine educational breakout sessions. Countless new connections.

The Expo showcased the strength, diversity, and innovation of the Rock County business community while creating opportunities for businesses and residents to connect.

Take a look back at the largest Expo in the event's history in the latest issue of FJI Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04lPZ4F0

06/19/2026

This week, members of the Forward Foundation Board of Directors, Mick Gilbertson and Oakleigh Ryan, had the opportunity to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the future Children's Museum of Rock County and see firsthand the incredible progress taking shape inside the historic downtown building.

Just over a year ago, the Forward Foundation completed the sale of 100 W. Milwaukee Street to the Children's Museum of Rock County for $1, helping transform a long-vacant property into a community asset that will inspire learning, creativity and discovery for generations to come.

Projects like this reflect the shared mission of Forward Janesville and the Forward Foundation: supporting initiatives that strengthen our community, enhance quality of life and help make Rock County a place where families, workers and businesses choose to invest their future. We can't wait to see the doors open and children begin exploring all that this remarkable space will offer.

Learn more about the Children's Museum of Rock County: https://hubs.ly/Q04lPN5D0

Curious how this project came together? Read about the Forward Foundation's sale of the property in 2025: https://hubs.ly/Q04lPWYK0

06/19/2026

Joshua Pickering, General Manager of Genisa Wine Bar and Jack & Jenny's in downtown Janesville, discusses how JOIN Janesville Young Professionals impacted his professional journey in Janesville, Wisconsin.

JOIN Janesville is the official young professionals affiliate of Forward Janesville. JOIN Janesville offers a variety of events and other opportunities to make connections.

"My encouragement to anyone thinking about JOIN Janesville is to join! You can't go anywhere but up. I really encourage people to get involved and to see that this is not some exclusive club. It's for anybody that is young and wants to be involved."

Learn more at https://hubs.ly/Q04lhWG60

06/18/2026

ONE WEEK TO GO ⏰

A quick reminder that Business After Five at Lake Ridge Bank was recently postponed due to severe weather. We’re now just one week away from the rescheduled event!

Join us next Thursday, June 25, from 5-7pm at Lake Ridge Bank at 2605 Kennedy Road.

We look forward to seeing you for an evening of networking, connection and great conversation with fellow Forward Janesville members.

Learn more about BA5 at https://hubs.ly/Q04lkjfW0

06/18/2026

Janesville's future won't be determined by chance. It will be shaped by the decisions we make today.

A recent City Leaders Breakfast brought together local, regional (Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce) and statewide (Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce - Wisconsin's Chamber) business leaders to discuss the issues that will define our next chapter—from workforce and housing to economic competitiveness, innovation and growth.

What emerged was a conversation about opportunity, challenges and what it will take to keep Janesville moving forward.

Read the key takeaways: https://hubs.ly/Q04lP-YJ0

06/18/2026

Stay connected. Stay informed. Stay ahead.

Did you know that if your business is a Forward Janesville member, every one of your employees can sign up for our email communications?

From events and networking opportunities to key business resources and updates on decisions that impact our region—our emails are designed to keep your team in the know and ahead of what’s next.

Learn more and sign up to receive our communications at https://hubs.ly/Q04lkfX60

06/17/2026

Workforce retention isn't just about jobs.

It's about belonging.

It's about helping people build friendships, professional networks, leadership skills, and community connections.

In the latest FJI Report, learn how the partnership between Forward Janesville and JOIN Janesville is helping strengthen the talent pipeline and create a more connected community for emerging leaders.

Read more: https://hubs.ly/Q04lhHdX0

06/17/2026