Our organization works to bring new life to downtown Rockford by establishing a weekly tradition that draws people into the heart of the city, creates a vibrant community center, increases business at downtown shops & restaurants, and serves as an incubator for new businesses.
We hope you join us in the goal and meet us at the Market.
Cathy is the Executive Director of the Rock River Development Partnership and has held the role since the inception of RRDP in 2009. She has shepherded the organization through the growth of the Rockford City Market, acquisition of the North End Market and other local events, and construction of the indoor market building. She enjoys her volunteer work as a board member of the National Association of Produce Market Managers and the Illinois Farmers Market Association. Cathy is a lifelong Rockford resident and a graduate of Boylan High School and Rockford College (now University). She and her husband Kevin have two married daughters, Sarah and Emily, a son Luke, a one-year-old grandson, Kevy, and a yorkie Cody. Cathy enjoys traveling, cooking, visiting local restaurants and spending time with family and friends.
Cathy.McDermott@rrdp.org
815.977.5124
Becca moved to Rockford from Grand Rapids, Michigan in early 2019. With a background in event planning and a passion for local food systems and community-centered events, she was eager to join the Rockford City Market team. She loves seeing relationships grow between customers and vendors, and is excited to continue fostering those connections via the Outdoor Rockford City Market, the North End City Market, and all of the various pop-up Markets during the year. When she's not working with vendors or planning the next Market event, she enjoys spending time with family & friends, exploring local breweries and coffee shops, and reading Agatha Christie novels.
Becca.Bartels@rrdp.org
815.315.1337
Amy joined the Rockford City Market team in January 2022 as the Event & Rental Specialist. After being Rockford City Market’s very first bride in November 2019, Amy knew her story with Rockford City Market wasn’t over yet. With a degree in Nonprofit Management and a history of working in foster care, her passion for making others feel seen, special, and celebrated translated perfectly to her position in Private Events at Rockford City Market. Amy works with clients to ensure that their “dream event” comes to life. If she’s not busy coordinating a wedding or helping at the Outdoor Market, you can find Amy hanging out with her husband, reading a book and sipping coffee, or tending to her many houseplants!
Amy.Ekberg@rrdp.org
815.315.1332
116 N. Madison St.
Suite 207
Rockford, IL
Call us at 815.977.5125
