ROCKFORD, IL — Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) have announced an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) for Startups agreement for Rockford Brake Manufacturing’s $6.6 million investment to reestablish the company and reopen a historic Rockford factory.

Four former employes of Gunite Corporation have created a new business, which will save Rockford’s longest-standing factory since parent company Accuride closed Gunite’s doors in February 2025 after announcing Chapter 11 bankruptcy, according to a community announcement.

Bolstered by state incentives, the former Gunite employees are purchasing the idled factory and are relaunching operations as Rockford Brake Manufacturing.

“Here in Illinois, we strive to support our busi

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