A Story Worth Telling. A Future Worth Building.
Janesville has a story worth being proud of — one shaped by generations of businesses, entrepreneurs, workers and community leaders who built, invested and believed here.
And that story isn't finished.
This year's Forward Janesville Annual Dinner celebrates the story that shaped our community, the momentum carrying Janesville forward, and the people and businesses helping write what comes next.
Throughout the evening, we’ll look back at lessons from Janesville’s past, celebrate the momentum and opportunities in front of our community today, and turn the conversation toward the role each of us can play in building — and telling — the stories of our businesses, organizations and community.
Attendees can expect an evening that combines community pride and optimism with practical ideas for telling the stories of their own businesses, organizations and careers in ways that connect with the people who matter most.
And, of course, Annual Dinner remains what it has become each year: one of the largest gatherings of Janesville’s business and community leaders under one roof.
Be Part Of The Story
Registration is now open for the 2026 Forward Janesville Annual Dinner.
Join hundreds of business professionals, entrepreneurs, community leaders and people invested in Janesville’s future for one of the largest gatherings of the local business community.
Whether filling a full table with an Annual Dinner sponsorship or attending as an individual, choose the Annual Dinner experience that’s right for you:
Meet Featured Speaker Zach Atherton
Zach Atherton is a storyteller, marketing expert and founder of Storytelling School.
At Annual Dinner, Zach will challenge us to think differently about one of the most powerful tools available to any business, organization or professional: the story we tell.
Great storytelling helps people understand not only what you do, but why what you do matters.
Zach will bring practical ideas attendees can use to better communicate the stories of their businesses, organizations and careers — helping them build stronger brands, connect with their audiences and make what they do more memorable.
His message fits naturally into this year’s Annual Dinner theme: Janesville has a story worth telling, but so do the businesses and people helping write its next chapter.
An Evening Built Around Story
Our Story
A look at the people, businesses and decisions that helped shape Janesville.
The Next Chapter
A celebration of the momentum, opportunities and people moving our community forward today.
Your Story
Practical inspiration to help businesses, organizations and professionals better communicate who they are, why they matter and where they’re headed.
2026 Forward Janesville Annual Dinner
Thursday, October 22, 2026
Woodman's Sports & Convention Center
Doors at 5:30 p.m.; Program at 6:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 8
Annual Dinner Through the Years
For years, the Forward Janesville Annual Dinner has brought together hundreds of business and community leaders for an evening of connection, inspiration and celebration of the community we call home.