Make your move worthwhile. Cities and states are offering incentives, cash, amenities and other benefits when you relocate.

Programs - Apply Today to Access Benefits When You Move

Now recruiting for Registered Nurses, LPN's, CNA's, Physical Therapists and more!  

To see all job opportunities, click here.

Spring Valley Meadows French Lick is currently looking to recruit LPNs, RNs (especially night shift), and CNAs. There are also opportunities for our culinary (Cook, Culinary Aide) and housekeeping/laundry (Housekeeping Aide) departments. 

Please see the Spring Valley Meadows or American Senior Communities websites for a full list of openings. 

French Lick

Springs Valley Meadows is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility located in French Lick, Indiana.

Bring your heart to work and join one of the most honorable professions, senior care. We take pride in our CARE Companion Culture and provide our team members with the opportunity to make a difference in their community while advancing their careers. As one of the largest senior care employers in the state of Indiana, we provide full-time, part-time, and temporary opportunities. We offer a wide variety of benefits and perks.

Springs Valley Meadows is Recruiting Nurses

1 annual pass to Indiana Department of Natural Resources state parks

A free Springs Valley Bank & Trust checking account with a $250 bonus 

Quarterly Mover Events - hikes, beach days, winery tours, and more! 

Free guided tour behind the scenes at the Patoka Lake Winery 

A free visit to the Wilstem Ranch Drive-Through Safari 

Jackson, Michigan: Calling All Aspiring Police Officers!

The Jackson Police Department (JPD) is seeking dedicated individuals to serve and protect our community. Join one of Michigan's most professional and well-trained police forces and make a real difference in the lives of Jackson citizens.

 Recognizing experience with increased pay (2 yrs: $64,834; 3 yrs: $67,974; 4 yrs: $71,198)

 Including pension program, deferred compensation, health insurance, longevity pay, holiday pay, vacation & sick time, comp time, outer vests, residency allowance, tuition reimbursement, gym reimbursement.

The Jackson Police Department is committed to professionalism and community engagement. If you aspire to a rewarding career in law enforcement, we encourage you to apply.

Request an application to learn more about how to connect with JDP!

Curious to learn more about what life is like in Jackson? Check out the community page below!

Police Officer Signing Bonus – Jackson Police Department

Muscle Shoals

Eligible applicants receive $10,000 cash distributed throughout their first year in The Shoals - the charming and historical communities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia. Sounds good. (Get it?)

Move to The Shoals

Where Startups Scale and Innovation Takes Root.

The City of Detroit is proud to launch the 

, a new initiative designed to elevate startup talent in Detroit and drive Michigan’s innovation ecosystem forward. Targeting recent graduates from Michigan universities, the program helps promising founders stay and scale their ventures in-state—strengthening Detroit as a hub for AI, biotech, clean energy, smart manufacturing, mobility, and other emerging industries.

A monthly stipend to support housing and living expenses

A community of high agency, like-minded peers 

Detroit’s startup scene is growing fast—and your future could grow with it. Whether you're launching your venture or taking it to the next stage, this is your chance to build something bold in a city built on reinvention.

The City of Detroit is proud to introduce the DetroitTech Fellowship Program, a new initiative to elevate Michigan’s next generation of founders and innovators. Designed for recent graduates of Michigan universities, this program helps promising startup talent stay and scale in-state—while reinforcing Detroit’s position as a leader in AI, biotech, clean energy, mobility, and smart manufacturing.

Detroit

Detroit Tech Fellowship

$2,000 per month stipend for one year to support rent and living expenses and enable full time focus on startup development

One year monthly membership at Bamboo's Downtown Detroit and Midtown Detroit coworking space locations for each selected startup fellow plus one member of their staff or leadership team

One year monthly membership at the TechTown Detroit coworking space for each selected startup fellow plus one member of their staff or leadership team

Newlab Detroit will offer a one year membership for selected fellows plus one member of their staff or leadership team for startups aligned with its mission *eligibility and access determined by Newlab

Situated in Southeast Missouri midway between St. Louis, Missouri, and Memphis, Tennessee, Poplar Bluff is home to approximately 35,000 people. We are nestled among the Ozark foothills, spring-fed streams, The 400 mile Ozark Trail, the Mark Twain National Forest, the Ozark Scenic National Riverways, Wappapello & Clearwater Lake and fertile farmland. Poplar Bluff serves as a regional hub for education, health care, banking, retail and manufacturing for over 100,000 people.

Poplar Bluff

Move to Poplar Bluff

One year membership to Smart Space, a co-working space in the community

Free shows at the Black River Coliseum for one year

Circle Fiber first 3 months internet free

Free one year membership to the City golf course

Family entertainment at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center for one year

Three Rivers College family pass for all sporting events for one year

One free night hotel stay (Hampton or Holiday Inn)

Free one year membership to the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce

Free family membership for 6 months at Ozark Wellness

$50 gift card at the Landing, in Van Buren

$175 off any two night (Lakeview) cabin rental at Otahki Lake

$25 restaurant gift card to Colton's/Brad+Butter, Castello's, Wine Rack, and King David's Winery

$100 gift card to the office supply store

Four free jump passes to Sky High trampoline park

One free family pass for PBHS sporting events 

New Haven, Indiana is a small town that prides itself on its strong sense of community and welcoming locals. The city has a downtown district with local businesses, restaurants and cafes. The proximity to several major metropolitan areas such as Fort Wayne, Chicago, and Indianapolis makes it an ideal location for those who want to live in a small community but still have easy access to the amenities and opportunities of larger cities.

The city also has a strong commitment to the arts with a thriving arts scene, local theater groups and an annual concert series. The community is welcoming and open-minded, with a diverse population.

Close by are great outdoors opportunities, it's surrounded by beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as Chain O'Lakes State Park, which offers hiking, camping, fishing, and boating opportunities. The city is also home to an annual farmers market where local farmers sell their produce, and several other events and festivals throughout the year, that create a sense of community among residents.

The city offers great outdoor opportunities, low cost of living for remote workers looking to move to a great community.

The city has a strong commitment to the arts with a thriving arts scene, local theater groups and an annual concert series. The community is welcoming and open-minded, with a diverse population. 
Close by are great outdoor opportunities. It's surrounded by beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as Chain O'Lakes State Park, which offers hiking, camping, fishing, and boating opportunities.


New Haven

Move to New Haven

Jury Park Pool Pass OR a month free at a local gym

Montpelier

More than just pretty landscapes, Vermont residents enjoy award-winning schools, a thriving small business environment, craft breweries and Bernie Sanders. Remote workers receive up to $5,000 per year for up to two years. Applicants who move and become a full-time employee of a Vermont business are eligible for up to $7,500.

Move to Vermont

Culver, IN is an excellent community for remote workers looking for a peaceful, inspiring, and picturesque place to call home. Located on the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee, the town offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The Culver Academies, a top-notch private boarding school for grades 9-12, is in the heart of the town. Culver's friendly community and charming downtown area, with locally owned shops and restaurants, make it easy to support small businesses and get to know your neighbors.

Culver, IN is an excellent community for remote workers looking for a peaceful, inspiring, and picturesque place to call home. Located on the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee, the town offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities.

Culver

Move to Culver

A Warm Welcome from the South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership

We're inviting healthcare professionals to build their career and home in the South Bend-Elkhart Region! 

This program exists to help you find local employment in the healthcare industry, offset some of your move costs with $2,500 cash, and provide support as you settle into the community. In addition to access to the region's premier healthcare employers, participants will receive personalized help from the program in their employment search. We can't wait to meet you!

Here’s why you should consider making the South Bend-Elkhart Region your next home:

: With competitive pay, generous bonuses, and significant growth potential, healthcare positions at Beacon Health System, Goshen Health, Senior1Care, and other local healthcare employers provide rewarding career paths that make a real impact.

: Enjoy a lower cost of living, affordable housing, and more time for yourself in a region that offers beautiful parks, cultural activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

: Join a network of professionals in a supportive, innovative healthcare environment where your contributions matter, and career advancement is encouraged.

: The region is committed to your professional development, offering access to continuing education and career advancement opportunities.

Come to the South Bend-Elkhart region for a career that balances professional growth with an exceptional quality of life!

Make lifelong friends in the South Bend-Elkhart Region while enjoying the area's amenities. What makes this region truly special is its people—passionate locals who warmly welcome newcomers. Whether you want to volunteer, join a sports league, or connect with neighbors, this region offers endless opportunities to feel at home in a vibrant community.

Join a thriving healthcare community with competitive pay, bonuses, and career growth. Enjoy work-life balance, affordable living, beautiful parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere in the South Bend-Elkhart region, with ample opportunities for professional development and a rewarding lifestyle.

South Bend

Discover Rewarding Healthcare Careers in the South Bend-Elkhart Region

Personalized employment search assistance: The South Bend-Elkhart Region is a great place to build a long-term career, and we'll connect you with the job that makes the move possible.

Incredible Opportunity for Gastroenterologists at Beacon Medical Group: $50,000 Sign-On Bonus + $600,000 Salary Guarantee

Beacon Health System Nursing Education Stipend: Invest in Your Future in Healthcare

Exceptional Benefits for Beacon Health System Team Members: Supporting You at Every Step

Today, Crawfordsville continues to amaze with its innovative roots and collaborative approach to place building. In fact, many of its amenities and programs are those usually seen in much larger communities.

In 2015, Crawfordsville became an Indiana Stellar Communities designee, a statewide program which provides resources to communities for transformational quality of place initiatives. As a designee, Crawfordsville leveraged millions of dollars to invest in--and complete--a number of very successful projects. These included a city-wide bike/pedestrian trail system linking the Wabash College campus to downtown, Pike Place an outside events venue and park, and the City's cornerstone project--Fusion 54. This multi-story facility houses a synergistic collaboration of growth entities such as the Fusion 54 Center, - an entrepreneurship support organization and coworking location, Wabash College's Center for Innovation, Crawfordsville Economic Development, and Volunteer 54.  

Another unique project currently underway is the repurposing of a historical landmark in the heart of downtown known as the Ben Hur Building. When complete it will house a boutique hotel, restaurant, and penthouse apartments.

Understanding the dynamics of the housing market, the City has taken proactive steps to affect change in this sector by working in partnership with residential developers to create the diversity of housing inventory required to attract young millennials, young professionals with children, and active seniors. As a 10GB location, Crawfordsville's fiber infrastructure can support the technology needs of remote workers and e-learners alike, and when combined with an average cost-per-square-foot of $100 and a median selling price of $149,000 for a single-family residence, makes Crawfordsville a highly desirable location. In addition to fast internet and affordable housing, Crawfordsville knows that finding primary care is a top priority for remote workers looking to move. Crawfordsville has you covered by providing one year of primary care at the Crawfordsville Chamber Health Clinic so you know you'll have access to quality care.

It's for real, and MakeMyMove helps you find the right community for you, connect with locals there, and get support to make your move a piece of cake.

Residents enjoy a city-wide bike/pedestrian trail system linking the Wabash College campus to downtown, Pike Place an outside events venue and park, and the City's cornerstone project--Fusion 54. This multi-story facility houses a synergistic collaboration of growth entities such as the Fusion 54 Center, - an entrepreneurship support organization and coworking location, Wabash College's Center for Innovation, Crawfordsville Economic Development, and Volunteer 54.

Crawfordsville

Move to Crawfordsville

1-year free membership to Fusion 54 Co-Working Space and half-price second year.

1-year of primary care at the Chamber Health Clinic

Annual Crawfordsville Community Center Pass

Community Welcome Dinner with the Mayor & business community

1-year Social Membership to Crawfordsville Country Club

Wells County offers the perfect blend of small-town comfort and big-picture potential. With a welcoming atmosphere, low cost of living, and strong community roots, it’s a place where you can build a meaningful life. From the charming Victorian architecture of downtown Bluffton to the natural beauty of Ouabache State Park and the Wabash River Greenway, Wells County is full of everyday adventures and authentic connections.

Explore the Perks of Life in Wells County, Indiana

Tucked into the heart of Northeast Indiana, Wells County blends small-town charm with forward-looking opportunity. Residents enjoy friendly neighborhoods, a low cost of living, and a strong sense of community pride. From the historic Victorian architecture of downtown Bluffton to the natural beauty of Ouabache State Park and the Wabash River Greenway, Wells County offers endless ways to connect, explore, and unwind. Add in vibrant local events, thriving small businesses, and easy access to nearby Fort Wayne, and you’ll see why so many choose to call this welcoming corner of Indiana home. To make your move even smoother, we’ve assembled a collection of benefits to help you settle in, get connected, and start thriving from day one:

 Jumpstart your move with $5,000 in direct financial support to help cover moving costs, rent, furnishings, or anything you need to make Wells County feel like home.

 Get a warm welcome with a locally curated merchandise bundle, featuring Wells County apparel, gear, and goodies that celebrate the area’s small-town pride and community spirit.

🏛 Wells County Chamber of Commerce Membership:

 Plug into the business and professional community with a free 1 year membership to the Wells County Chamber of Commerce. Great for networking, professional growth, and staying informed on local events and opportunities.

👩‍💼 Women in Leadership EmpowerHER Conference Ticket:

 Attend the annual EmpowerHER Conference, an inspiring and energizing event hosted by the Chamber. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with local women leaders, hear from dynamic speakers, and grow your network.

🍽️ 4 Quarterly Luncheon Passes with the Chamber of Commerce:

 Enjoy complimentary access to four Chamber luncheons throughout the year—ideal for meeting local business owners, civic leaders, and fellow newcomers while staying up to date on community happenings.

 Give your furry friend room to roam with a free membership to K-9 Kommons, Bluffton’s beloved dog park. It’s a great way for both pets and people to make new friends.

🏈 Southern Wells Community Schools All-Sports Pass (1 Year):

 Cheer on local student-athletes with a one-year all-access pass to Southern Wells Community Schools sporting events.

Show your new hometown pride with a second exclusive merch package from the Wells County Economic Development Corporation, including local swag and useful information about living, working, and thriving in the area.

💪 6-Month Membership to Bluffton Strength and Conditioning (2 Passes): 

Stay active and connected with two 6-month gym memberships at Bluffton Strength and Conditioning.

🏡 $500 Off Realtor Commission – Isaac Stoller, Steffen Group:

 Enjoy $500 off realtor commission when you work with Isaac Stoller through the Steffen Group (Must use Isaac and the Steffen Group to qualify.)

🗞️ 1-Year Subscription to The News-Banner:

 Stay in the loop with a free 1-year subscription to The News-Banner, Wells County’s trusted local newspaper, covering everything from school events to city council news.

🏠 5% Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance – Hoosier Homes Plus:

 Eligible homebuyers can receive up to 5% in down payment and closing cost assistance through the Hoosier Homes Plus program, making homeownership in Wells County even more accessible and affordable.

Considering a move? Wells County, just 25 minutes south of Fort Wayne, combines rural charm with convenient urban access. Bluffton, the county seat, is a community-focused hub with scenic trails, the Ouabache State Park, and a lively downtown.

With top-rated schools, award-winning parks, and revitalized downtowns in both Bluffton and Ossian, Wells County is ideal for families and remote workers alike. Enjoy the tranquility of small-town life with easy access to big-city amenities and an international airport. Discover the best of both worlds in Wells County!

Wells County

Make Your Move to Wells County

Wells County Chamber of Commerce Memberhsip

Women in Leadership EmpowerHER Conference ticket

4 Quarterly Luncheon Passes with the Chamber of Commerce

Southern Wells Community Schools all-sports pass for 1 year

2 passes to Bluffton Strength and Conditioning for 6 months

$500 off commission from Realtor Isaac Stoller with Steffen Group (Must use Isaac and Steffen Group as realtor)

5% in down payment assistance and closing costs for eligible buyers through the Hoosier Homes Plus program 

White County wins hearts with its friendly neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and strong sense of community. From beloved local restaurants to scenic parks full of natural beauty, it’s an affordable and welcoming place where it’s easy to feel connected and at home.

Explore the Perks of Life in White County, Indiana

Tucked in north-central Indiana, White County offers the perfect blend of small-town charm, natural beauty, and growing opportunity. With friendly neighborhoods, great schools, and a strong sense of community, it’s a place where newcomers are truly welcomed. Residents enjoy local gems like Indiana Beach, beautiful parks, lake life, and a calendar full of community events. From cash relocation incentives and wellness perks to networking opportunities and family-friendly activities, we’ve curated a set of benefits to help you get settled, get connected, and start thriving in White County from day one:

Receive $7,500 to help cover moving costs, housing expenses, or anything else you need to make your transition to White County smooth and stress-free. It’s your first step toward building a new life in a welcoming community.

2 Passes to Indiana Beach Amusement & Water Park Resort: 

Enjoy unlimited thrills and lakeside fun at Indiana Beach, one of Indiana’s most beloved attractions. With roller coasters, water slides, games, and lake views, it’s the perfect family-friendly way to dive into White County life.

Board the iconic Madam Carroll—Indiana’s largest inland boat—for a live music cruise on Lake Freeman. Experience scenic views, great entertainment, and good vibes with your new neighbors.

1 Car Pass to Lake Shore Drive-In Movie Theater: 

Catch a double feature under the stars at this charming local drive-in. Bring your favorite snacks, load up the car, and enjoy a night of nostalgic fun with family or friends.

Get a personal welcome to White County with a casual meet-up with the mayor. It’s a chance to ask questions, share your story, and start building connections with local leadership.

 Access a variety of athletic facilities, courts, and leagues with a family pass that opens the door to Twin Lakes sports programs—perfect for staying active and getting involved in the local scene.

Cool off and connect with the community at the Monticello city pool. This family pass gives you full access to the pool all season long.

Settle in with a handpicked collection of local goodies, community info, and hometown favorites—your first taste of the hospitality White County is known for.

It's for real, and MakeMyMove helps you find the right community for you, connect with locals there, and get support to make your move a piece of cake.

White County, Indiana is a beautiful area located in the northern part of Indiana. The county is known for its many lakes and waterways, making it a popular destination for water activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing. This community wants the best for its people and its businesses. It's a great place to live at a more relaxed pace.

Monticello

Move to White County

2 Passes to Indiana Beach Amusement & Water Park Resort

1 car pass to Lake Shore Drive-In Movie Theater

Come and get a taste of Lake Life before you commit: discounted stay at the Lighthouse Lodge Bed & Breakfast with a Boat Tour of Lake Shafer 

South Bend is the perfect community for remote workers looking for a welcoming, genuine, and inspirational place to call home. Here are just a few reasons why we think you should consider moving to this vibrant and unique city.

First of all, South Bend is a great place to raise a family. The city has a variety of excellent schools, including several highly-ranked public and private institutions. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy, from exploring the city's many parks and museums to attending sporting events or concerts.

But South Bend isn't just a great place for families. It's also a thriving community with plenty of opportunities for remote workers. The city has a growing tech industry and is home to several startup incubators and co-working spaces. Plus, with its affordable cost of living and reliable internet access, South Bend is the perfect place for remote workers who want to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

But what really sets South Bend apart is its people. We've talked to locals who are passionate about their city and eager to welcome newcomers with open arms. Whether you're interested in getting involved in the community through volunteering, joining a local sports league, or just getting to know your neighbors, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with others in South Bend.

We believe that South Bend is the perfect community for remote workers who want to empower themselves and their families by finding the perfect place to call home. We invite you to explore all that South Bend has to offer and discover why it's the perfect place for you.

Move to South Bend

Work Locally in Wells County & Get Rewarded!

Ready to start a new role and make Wells County your home? Take advantage of exclusive incentives that make it easy to settle in and connect with the community!

Wells County offers the best of both worlds—small-town charm just 25 minutes from Fort Wayne. With top-rated schools, award-winning parks, and vibrant downtowns in Bluffton and Ossian, it’s a growing community that still feels close-knit. Enjoy scenic trails, Ouabache State Park, and a river greenway that connects nature to downtown living.

Advanced Manufacturing & Skilled Trade – 

Wells County’s industrial base continues to expand, creating steady roles in machining, CNC, welding, fabrication, assembly, and maintenance. Plastics and industrial production facilities add additional opportunities in extrusion, logistics, and quality control. Local construction and skilled-trade companies offer hands-on work in carpentry, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and more with apprenticeship pathways for career advancement.

Bluffton Regional Medical Center anchors the local healthcare sector with careers in nursing, allied health, imaging, patient care, administrative support, and emergency services. Independent clinics, therapy practices, and behavioral-health providers hire for medical assistants, therapy aides, office support, and specialists. Senior-living communities provide ongoing openings for CNAs, caregivers, culinary staff, and activities support.

Logistics, Distribution & Transportation – 

Regional warehouses and distribution centers support roles in forklift operation, dispatching, inventory coordination, shipping/receiving, and CDL-A driving. Local logistics companies offer career tracks in routing, customer service, and supply-chain support.

As a core economic driver, Wells County’s farm and agribusiness sector employs workers in crop production, equipment operation, livestock care, hauling, grain handling, and seasonal support. Agronomy suppliers and processing facilities hire for plant operations, feed production, packaging, and quality assurance.

Public school districts, Bluffton-Harrison MSD, Northern Wells Community Schools, and Southern Wells Community Schools, provide opportunities in teaching, classroom support, coaching, food service, transportation, and building operations.

Government, Public Safety & Local Services – 

Wells County Government and the City of Bluffton offer careers in public works, administration, utilities, planning, clerical services, and parks. Law-enforcement and emergency-service employers hire across policing, EMS, fire, corrections, and dispatch roles.

Whether you’re launching your career, leveling up your skills, or stepping into something new, Wells County brings together strong opportunities and a supportive community ready to help you thrive.

 – Click "apply now" above to show your interest and tell us more about your background. 

 – Browse the job board below to explore career opportunities in Wells County. We’re especially seeking paramedics, engineers, and HVAC professionals!

 – Once approved, the MakeMyMove team and our local partners will support you every step of the way—from finding housing and connecting with the community to completing your move.

Relocating is a major step — but you won’t do it alone. Riley County offers relocation support, access to employers, and introductions to local networks and community leaders who want you to succeed. Start the process today and make the move with confidence.

Learn more about the Wells County community below!

Considering a move? Wells County, just 25 minutes south of Fort Wayne, combines rural charm with convenient urban access. Bluffton, the county seat, is a community-focused hub with scenic trails, the Ouabache State Park, and a lively downtown.

Work Locally In Wells County

Floyd County offers the perfect blend of small-town warmth and modern convenience. With top-rated schools, a vibrant downtown filled with local restaurants and shops, scenic natural beauty, and a thriving coworking scene for remote work and innovation, it's easy to see why so many are proud to call the area home.

Explore the Perks of Life in Floyd County

Nestled along the scenic Ohio River and just minutes from Louisville, Kentucky, Floyd County blends small-town charm with metropolitan convenience. Known for its top-tier schools, beautiful parks, and thriving local businesses, Floyd County is a place where quality of life comes naturally. Residents enjoy a vibrant downtown, an active arts and culture scene, delicious dining, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're drawn by family-friendly neighborhoods, entrepreneurial spirit, or natural beauty, Floyd County offers a warm welcome and fantastic relocation benefits to help you feel at home from day one:

Get a strong start in your new home with $5,000 in relocation assistance. Use it toward moving expenses, housing, or anything else that helps make your transition to Floyd County smooth and stress-free.

5-Year Dual Co-Working Memberships to The Root and Novaparke Innovation & Technology Campus: 

Enjoy five years of access to two of the region’s leading coworking spaces—

, a modern tech and innovation campus. Perfect for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and creatives looking for a professional environment with networking opportunities and business support.

Get a warm hometown welcome with a curated basket full of local favorites—think artisan snacks, handmade goods, and community guides—designed to give you a taste of the culture and hospitality that make Floyd County special.

Floyd County, IN, is located in the southern part of the state, just across the Ohio River from Louisville, KY. Floyd County is known for having quality schools and a good housing market. The New Albany-Floyd County Consolidated School Corporation is highly regarded for its academic excellence and has received numerous awards and accolades.

New Albany

Move to Floyd County

5 Year Dual Co-Working Memberships to The Root and Novaparke Innovation and Technology Campus 

$5,000 Longevity Bonus OR $5,000 Business Start-Up Grant

Founder Forward: Michigan's Innovation Fellowship

Bold Founders. Big Visions. Michigan's Future.

This year-long fellowship attracts and accelerates high-growth founders by providing capital, workspace, mentorship, and ecosystem access at Michigan Central—Detroit’s global hub for innovation. 

Michigan is where manufacturing, mobility, healthcare, and sustainability converge with bold new technologies. Anchored by global corporations and a rapidly growing startup ecosystem, founders here gain access to talent, capital, and cross-industry opportunities.

Every fellow receives a $5,000 or $1,000 grant to either ease the cost of relocation to Michigan or strengthen their business foundation if they are already here. This funding supports essentials like housing, moving expenses, or critical startup infrastructure. It’s designed to remove barriers, giving founders the breathing room to focus on building and scaling.

Fellows gain full access to Michigan Central and Newlab—a global hub for mobility, technology, and cross-industry collaboration. For twelve months, founders work side by side with innovators, corporations, and investors in one of the nation’s most dynamic entrepreneurial environments. This membership provides not just a desk, but an ecosystem.

Tailored Mentorship from Leaders Who’ve Built Before

The fellowship provides structured guidance from seasoned operators, investors, and ecosystem leaders. Fellows participate in monthly expert workshops, weekly office hours, and one-on-one advising tailored to their company’s stage and sector. From refining fundraising strategies to building scalable operations, the support is personalized and practical.

Founder Forward connects fellows with Michigan’s leading venture funds, corporate investors, and mission-driven capital partners. In addition to venture introductions, fellows receive support navigating CDFI-backed microloans and sustainability-focused capital programs—ensuring founders can fundraise for both immediate growth and long-term resilience.

Each fellow contributes at least 10 hours to service projects and structured mentorship with students or early-stage entrepreneurs. This creates a ripple effect of leadership, embedding fellows into Michigan’s community fabric while leaving a legacy that outlives the program itself.

Showcased on Statewide and National Stages

Founder Forward positions its fellows as visible leaders in Michigan’s innovation economy. With media amplification, dedicated showcase events, and high-profile speaking opportunities, fellows gain recognition that drives credibility, partnerships, and investment.

Founder Forward is built for venture-backed, high-growth entrepreneurs ready to scale and anchor in Michigan. If you're building something big and looking for a place to grow, consider this your sign to build in Michigan—and build with purpose.

Michigan Women Forward is launching Founder Forward, 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 or a visionary founder returning to your roots, this program is designed to help you grow—right here in Michigan.

152 Programs

New Program Updates