Make Michigan Home

From the “Cherry Capital of the World” to the Motor City, regions across our state have come together to create brand-new programs with benefits designed by local communities to retain or attract a talented workforce, while highlighting the unique offerings and lifestyle available across our state. 

Clicking on the link for each local program will take you to our partner site where you can learn more and apply.

From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to historic downtowns and rolling vineyards, this region offers big-city opportunities with small-town charm. Here, it’s not just about finding work—it’s about loving where you live. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a seasoned expert looking for change, the Discover Southwest Michigan
program helps you move with purpose.

• Up to $5,000 to help you buy your first home in Southwest Michigan
• Have a partner moving with you? We’ll help them find their next career move too
• A personalized community tour wherever you land in the region
• Have children? We provide one-on-one help enrolling your kids in the right school
• Free college tuition at Lake Michigan College for eligible students

West Michigan Rooted is a new program designed to support individuals who are launching or advancing their careers in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing, and more. If you’re already working or planning to work in the region, you could be eligible for up to $5,000 in support—plus personalized resources to help you stay and thrive.

For Central Michigan University Graduates

Middle Michigan Development Corporation is proud to introduce a new program designed for soon-to-be graduates of Central Michigan University who are ready to grow their future in the heart of the state. This is more than just a relocation program—it’s an invitation to launch your life where opportunity meets community.

Michigan Centered offers:

• Up to $1,500 reimbursement to help with rent, mortgage, childcare, and other qualifying expenses
• Membership in the Young Professionals Network to build your career connections
• Financial planning assistance from a local bank to set you up for long-term success
• A Morey Courts gym membership to stay active and well
• An Isabella County Parks Pass to explore the region’s natural beauty
• Built-in community connections to help you get involved and feel at home

From stunning natural beauty and four-season recreation to a tight-knit community and world-class food & wine scene, discover what makes this region more than just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive.

• $5,000 cash for qualifying new leases or new mortgages
• One-on-one relocation support sessions with regional ambassadors
• Free admission to a Traverse Connect networking event
• 6-month coworking membership at 20Fathoms
• 1-month YMCA membership
• 1-year individual or family membership to Crooked Tree Arts Center
• 1-year membership to Dennos Museum Center
• 2 Platinum Series tickets to the City Opera House
• 1 Mainstage or Studio show ticket to Old Town Playhouse

Michigan Women Forward is launching the Founder Forward program, a bold new initiative to support the next wave of Michigan’s innovation economy by investing in the people building it. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur ready to scale, a high-potential founder from outside the state, or a visionary innovator returning to your Michigan roots, this program is designed to help you grow—right here in Michigan.