Discover Southwest Michigan
Total Incentive
$14,000
Description
Careers & Coastlines: Discover Southwest Michigan
From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to historic downtowns and rolling vineyards, Southwest Michigan offers big-city opportunities wrapped in small-town charm. Here, it’s not just about finding a job—it’s about loving where you live. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a seasoned expert ready for a change, the Discover Southwest Michigan program helps you move with purpose. It’s your chance to launch your future or plant roots in a vibrant, close-knit community where careers grow, coastlines inspire, and quality of life comes standard.
Meet Molly—your dedicated program manager and the first friendly face you’ll meet in Southwest Michigan! 🎉 As Southwest Michigan’s program manager, Molly is the first to welcome new applicants and help them feel right at home. A proud Michigan transplant herself, she brings deep experience in not-for- profits and a passion for building community.
"I don't know why anyone would want to live anywhere else." - Molly
Explore the Perks of Life in Southwest Michigan
From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to charming small towns and vibrant downtowns, Southwest Michigan offers a lifestyle that’s both relaxed and full of opportunity. Known for its scenic beauty, affordable cost of living, and strong sense of community, the region blends lakefront living with career growth, cultural events, and outdoor adventures. With award-winning schools, friendly neighborhoods, and a welcoming spirit, it’s an ideal place to plant roots. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, continue your education, or raise a family, our relocation benefits are designed to help you thrive in Southwest Michigan from day one:
🏡 $5,000 Toward Buying Your First Home in Southwest Michigan: Get a head start on homeownership with a $5,000 incentive to put toward your first home purchase in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren County—helping you plant roots and invest in your future. (Eligibility Rules Apply)
🗺️ Personalized Community Tour: Wherever you land in the region, you’ll get a custom tour of your new hometown led by a local! From coffee shops and parks to neighborhoods and schools, we’ll make sure you feel oriented and excited about your new community.
🎓 Free College Tuition at Lake Michigan College For Eligible Students: If you or your family members are eligible, take advantage of free tuition at Lake Michigan College—a respected local institution offering strong academic programs and career pathways, all within reach.
📚 One-on-One Help Enrolling Your Kids in School: Moving with kids? We provide personalized support to help you find the right school for your child, navigate enrollment, and get them set up for success from day one—whether public, private, or charter.
💞 Have a Partner? We’ll Help Them Plug In, Too: We know a move affects more than one person. If you have a partner, we’ll work with them to explore job opportunities, social groups, and community connections—so everyone feels supported in the move.
Ready to Make the Move?
Southwest Michigan is ready to welcome you! With breathtaking views, real opportunity, and a community that has your back, it’s time to step into what’s next. Apply now and let us help you turn the page to your best chapter yet.
This program is sponsored by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber with support from the Michigan Growth Office.
Southwest Michigan is recruiting job-seekers who:
Are 18 years old or older
Must live outside the State of Michigan
Will commit to moving to either Berrien, Cass or Van Buren County for at least one year
Will secure full-time employment earning at least $40,000 annually in Berrien, Cass or Van Buren County
Remote workers, gig workers and self-employed workers are not eligible
Will provide employment and residency documentation to confirm eligibility
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
FAQ
How much does it cost?
We’re 100% supported by communities. Thanks to their investments, our service is free to folks like you who are thinking about making a move.
My spouse will need a job as part of our move. Can you help?
Absolutely! In many participating communities, we work with local partners to help connect newcomers—and their families—with job opportunities and other helpful resources. Some programs even offer bonus incentives for others in the household that land local jobs. You can let us know your needs in your application, or feel free to reach out to our team anytime during the process. We’re here to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
How can I increase my chances of being selected?
Engagement matters! These programs can fill up fast, so staying responsive throughout the process can help you secure your spot more quickly. Take the time to connect with your program manager—share what’s drawing you to the community and how you hope to get involved once you arrive. The more they understand your goals, the better they can advocate for you and shape a great experience in return.
Other Details
Program Categories
How It Works
This community is participating in the MakeMyMove on-platform application process. Apply in a few minutes. You’ll receive a response to your application, and will have access to a team to help along the way.
1. Apply
Fill out our fast application form to share your information and why you’re interested in making a move.
2. Get Pre-Approved
Qualifying applicants will receive an introduction to the local sponsors of the program who will answer your questions, and help you decide if the community is the right fit.
3. Confirm Eligibility
Once you’ve been selected, we’ll confirm your eligibility for the program and facilitate a formal offer from the community.
4. Accept and Make Your Move
Accept your offer to reserve your spot in the program, and let us know when you arrive to receive the incentive.