The Rockford Park District, a key player in promoting sports and recreation in Rockford, Illinois, is actively seeking a new naming partner for its well-known UW Health Sports Factory. This facility has played a significant role in the community since its opening, drawing both regional and national events and significantly contributing to the local economy. As the current naming rights partnership with UW Health nears its conclusion, this creates a strategic opportunity for businesses to engage with this prime piece of infrastructure.
### Background of UW Health Sports Factory
Opened in 2016, the UW Health Sports Factory was designed to be a state-of-the-art facility that would cater to a wide variety of sports and events. The venue has successfully hosted numerous prestigious competitions, including the Women’s National Invitation Tournament, events by the United States Wheelchair Rugby Association, and has upcoming plans to welcome the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All In Volleyball Opening Weekend Tournament. These high-profile events not only enhance the reputation of the Sports Factory but also attract thousands of visitors to the area, contributing to the local economy.
### Economic Impact
Recent data highlights the significant economic impact of the Sports Factory on Rockford and its surroundings. In 2024 alone, the facility generated an economic impact of over $5.1 million, drawing in more than 600,000 patrons and participants. Early numbers from 2025 indicate that the Sports Factory has already contributed approximately $3.39 million to the economy in just the first half of the year. This demonstrates how integral the Sports Factory is to local tourism and commerce, making it an appealing investment opportunity for potential sponsors.
### Naming Rights Opportunity
As UW Health plans to broaden its partnership with the park district to include various parks and facilities by March 2026, the naming rights for the Sports Factory are now up for grabs. This opens the floor for businesses—whether local, regional, or national—to step forward and become the naming rights sponsor. The selected company will not only benefit from brand visibility but also from the positive community associations that come with sponsoring a facility dedicated to health and wellness through sports.
The new naming rights partner will have their name showcased prominently throughout the Sports Factory, which includes over a dozen signage opportunities on the building. This exposure will allow for considerable brand recognition, especially considering the volume of visitors the facility attracts for various events and activities year-round.
### RFP Process
The Rockford Park District is currently accepting Requests for Proposal (RFP) until September 17, 2025, at 2 p.m. Interested businesses must obtain the bid package through DemandStar and submit their applications accordingly. This process requires prospective partners to demonstrate how their vision aligns with the mission of the Rockford Park District and how they intend to engage the community through the sponsorship.
### Community Engagement and Benefits
The new naming rights partnership is not just a transactional opportunity; it serves as a platform for businesses to engage deeply with the community. By associating their brand with the Sports Factory, companies can enhance their local profile and build goodwill among residents. Local businesses, in particular, might find this partnership advantageous as the Sports Factory draws a consistent influx of visitors who could potentially become customers.
Participating in this naming rights opportunity also presents a chance for businesses to support community projects and initiatives. The Rockford Park District aims to foster a healthier and more active community by promoting sports, wellness, and recreational activities. A business partnership that highlights these values can resonate well with the community, resulting in positive public relations and customer loyalty.
### Moving Forward
As the Rockford Park District embarks on this search for a new naming rights partner, it stands as a pivotal moment for the Sports Factory and the surrounding community. The outgoing partnership with UW Health has set a strong precedent, and the aim now is to find a new sponsor who shares the vision of promoting sports, health, and community wellbeing.
The next sponsor has the unique opportunity to leave a lasting impact—not just by enhancing their brand visibility but also by actively contributing to the growth and development of the sports culture within Rockford.
In conclusion, the Rockford Park District’s quest for a new naming partner for the UW Health Sports Factory represents a valuable investment opportunity that extends well beyond simple branding. It invites businesses to become part of a larger narrative, one that champions health, sportsmanship, and community. The future of the Sports Factory will depend significantly on the vision and dedication of its next naming partner, making this an exciting and critical development for the Forest City and its residents. Businesses interested in securing their place in this vibrant community landscape should take action before the RFP deadline on September 17, 2025, to ensure they do not miss out on this unique opportunity.
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