We’re welcoming job-seekers to build their careers and lives in the Jacksonville Region!

This program is designed to connect you with local job opportunities and support you as you settle into the community. Along with access to the region’s centralized job board, participants will receive personalized assistance throughout their employment search. We’re excited to help you get started!

Jacksonville, Illinois, is where career growth and small-town charm meet big-city convenience. With beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and a rich cultural scene, it’s the perfect place to build your career while enjoying life.

Kristin is the President of the Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation and a resident of the area for most of her life. Kristin will be your personal guide - answering your questions, connecting you with resources, and ensuring your smooth transition. With Kristin's support, you'll quickly feel like a local.

The Jacksonville Region combines strong career opportunities with small-town warmth and modern convenience. Here’s what you’ll find:

 — Opportunities across education, manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and local business, with employers who value growth and community.

 — Comfortable housing options near great schools, parks, and shopping—everything you need within easy reach.

 — Enjoy nearby Lake Jacksonville for fishing, boating, and camping, or unwind on local trails and green spaces perfect for family adventures.

 — Experience a lively arts scene, community festivals, and historic downtown Jacksonville with its unique shops, local restaurants, and welcoming charm.

“I was awarded the incentive as a remote worker at first. Then Kristin [President of JREDC], who runs the program, asked if she could share my résumé with local employers. That’s how I found CCK Automations,” James Gaudio

 through MakeMyMove, you’ll receive a generous welcome package designed to help you settle in, explore, and feel right at home. Each item is meant to connect you with the community, add a little fun, and make your move smoother and more exciting! See above for a list of incentives 🌟

 With major employers like Illinois School for the Deaf, Illinois College, and Jacksonville School District 117, newcomers can find roles in teaching, student services, interpretation, campus operations, and K–12 support roles. These institutions provide consistent staffing needs and mission-driven work environments.

 Jacksonville Memorial Hospital (Memorial Health), local clinics, therapy providers, and senior-care facilities offer steady demand for nurses, technicians, administrative support, allied health professionals, and caregivers. Healthcare is one of the region’s largest and most reliable hiring sectors.

 Regional manufacturers offer roles in welding, machining, quality control, maintenance tech, and logistics. Skilled trades such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction also provide hands-on career paths with strong earning potential.

 State of Illinois agencies employ workers across administration, public safety, social services, corrections, and transportation. Local distribution and logistics centers support supply chain operations, dispatch, warehousing, and inventory roles.

Agriculture, Agribusiness & Food Processing:

 As part of Illinois’ agricultural core, the region includes farms, grain cooperatives, and food-processing facilities offering roles in agronomy, equipment operation, packaging, sanitation, and plant operations.

Whether you're starting fresh, building new skills, or looking to level up your career — Jacksonville provides steady opportunities across key industries and a community invested in your success.

We know searching for a job can be intimidating and overwhelming. We've created an Employment Guide to help. Explore our recommended job board, industries, employers, and training opportunities in the area.

The Jacksonville Region: Where Careers and Community Meet

This is more than just a new job—it’s an opportunity to build a meaningful life in a region that values connection, creativity, and a genuine sense of belonging. In the Jacksonville Region, professional growth goes hand in hand with personal fulfillment. Here, local employers are invested in your success, neighbors become friends, and community pride runs deep.

Whether you’re advancing your career or planting new roots, you’ll find a place that supports your ambitions while offering the comfort of small-town charm and the energy of a region on the rise. The Jacksonville Region is where your work has purpose, your connections have meaning, and your future feels right at home.

Relocating is a major step — but you won’t do it alone. Jacksonville 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.

This program is sponsored by The Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation 

The Jacksonville Region combines picturesque landscapes, friendly communities, and vibrant cultural scenes to offer the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city amenities. It's an ideal place to advance your career while enjoying a high quality of life in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Jacksonville

Build Your Career in Jacksonville, Illinois! (In-Person Jobs)

$300 in “Chamber Checks” compliments of the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce, First National Bank of Arenzville, and People’s Bank & Trust

One complimentary Heartland Bank and Trust Company checking account

Personal guided tour of Jacksonville schools by superintendent and real estate consultation with The Yates Team at The Real Estate Group, Inc.

Three months of fiber broadband service from Illinois Electric Cooperative, i3 Broadband or Cass Communications (must be located in service territory)

9-hole round of golf with cart for four at Plum Creek Golf Course, an 18-hole round of golf with cart and lunch for two at the Jacksonville Country Club, a 9-hole round of golf for two at K’s Creek Golf Course, and 2 foursomes with cart and lunch at the Jacksonville Links Golf Course.

Two-hour Kayak rental on Lake Mauvaisterre with up to 4 kayaks from the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Family season pass to the Jacksonville Speedway, a three-month gym membership at Fitness World Health Club, a $100 gift certificate for The Rural Cyclery and a 30-minute individual baseball/softball hitting lesson at Jamison’s Future Swings

Steak dinner for two and arcade game card at Future Champions Sports Complex, a one-hour ax throwing session at The Vault and a $100 gift certificate for Placke’s

Two tickets to the Art Association of Jacksonville Lawn Party at the Strawn Art Gallery and a $100 gift card to Don's Place for drinks and snacks during Thursday Night Crab Races

A “Jacksonville swag” basket from the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, a basket of Hefty, One-Zip and Reynolds Consumer Products

Looking for a small city with big heart and modern conveniences? Ottawa, Kansas combines small-town charm with easy access to shops, dining, and outdoor adventures—everything you need to thrive whether you’re working remotely or growing your career locally.

Ottawa is a welcoming community where small-town charm meets modern living. It’s the perfect place for remote professionals seeking balance—offering affordable living, reliable connectivity, and a supportive local network that helps you feel right at home.

 — Ottawa offers everything you need for comfortable living, including top-rated schools, a full-service hospital, clinics, dental and veterinary care, libraries, grocery stores, and locally owned shops.

, stretching from Ottawa to Iola through beautiful Kansas countryside.

 — Explore downtown Ottawa’s charming boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants—perfect spots to unwind, connect, and support local businesses.

 — From festivals and farmer’s markets to concerts and family-friendly events at Legacy Square

Say hello to Ryland, your Ottawa connection! He loves sharing what makes Ottawa such a special place to live and work—and he’s here to help you feel right at home from day one.

Get ready to feel at home in Ottawa! We’ve put together a package that makes your move not just easier—but way more exciting:

 – start your next chapter with a little extra boost.
🤝 

One-Year Dual Membership with the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce

 – connect, network, and grow in your new community.
🛍️ 

 – shop, dine, and explore local favorites.
🎟️ 

Two Tickets to the Chamber’s Annual Banquet

 – join the celebration and meet the faces behind this vibrant city.

Ottawa: More Than a Move—It’s a Community

This is a place where neighbors greet you by name, where weekends mean lakeside adventures and local festivals, and where downtown spaces buzz with connection and creativity. Remote work gives you freedom—

This program is sponsored by the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce and The State of Kansas.

Looking for a place with charm, opportunity, and connection?
Choose Ottawa — a community where history meets growth, and neighbors quickly become friends. With its walkable historic downtown, thriving local culture, affordable living, and relocation incentives designed to welcome new residents, Ottawa is ready to help you build your future while feeling right at home.

Ottawa

Live and Work Remote in Ottawa, Kansas

Enjoy a One-Year Dual Membership with the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce

Exclusive Access for Two to the Chamber’s Annual Banquet

Ottawa High School Household sporting event pass

Sewer scope inspection for home purchase – provided by KG Excavating

Voucher redeemable for any OMA show, including live music, comedy, magic, and more. Includes a meal voucher

Pet Adoption Fee or spay/neuter gift certificate

All-Access passes to every home sporting event at Ottawa University, plus 12 complimentary meal tickets

From Roots to Opportunity: Build Your Future in Riley County 

Ready to build your future in a place that feels like home?

Riley County is hiring — and we’re excited to welcome you to a community where career growth, connection, and quality of life come together. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to take the next step, you’ll find opportunity and belonging right here in Riley County.

Say hello to Allison, your Riley County connection! She’s passionate about helping others discover what makes Riley County such a wonderful place to live and work—and she’s here to make you feel right at home from day one.

Riley County offers the perfect blend of opportunity, community, and adventure — where your career can grow and your quality of life flourishes. Here’s what you’ll find:

 across education, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology — with employers who value innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance.

 with welcoming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and convenient access to all the amenities of nearby 

 — including shopping, dining, and entertainment.

, explore miles of trails, or spend your weekends kayaking, hiking, and camping surrounded by Kansas’ natural beauty.

 — From farmers markets and local festivals to vibrant arts, music, and university events, Riley County offers plenty of ways to connect and feel at home.

Get ready to feel at home in Riley County! We are putting together a package that makes your move not just easier—but way more exciting:

 – start your next chapter with a little extra boost.

Riley County offers career paths in several key and growing sectors:

 – Anchored by Kansas State University, the county is rich in teaching, campus operations, research, technology commercialization, and student-support roles. The university is one of the region’s largest employers and drives innovation, making this sector accessible and dynamic.

 – With Fort Riley in the region, Riley County has significant opportunities tied to military support, logistics, civilian roles, supply-chain operations, transportation, and infrastructure. The presence of the base plus associated civilian workforce makes this a stable and growth-oriented sector.

 – The region’s population growth, educational institutions, and military presence drive demand for healthcare facilities, clinics, allied health professionals, administrative support, and wellness services. Working in this sector means meaningful impact and strong career prospects.

 – Manufacturing remains key in Riley County, with companies such as Caterpillar Work Tools and others employing hundreds and offering roles in production, maintenance, welding, assembly, and process engineering.

 – The county’s location in Kansas means agriculture and related industries still play a meaningful role: from crop and livestock production to agribusiness services, bio-industry research (linked to the university/research side) and value-chain roles. This sector offers entry points that build into steady careers.

Whether you’re entering the workforce, reskilling, or ready to advance — Riley County offers a balanced mix of employers and industries — and a community that’s ready to help you thrive.

 – Browse current openings through Riley County’s trusted job search resources and local employment sites.

 – Reach out to employers who are actively hiring and eager to welcome new talent to the community.

 – Make your move with confidence — Riley County’s welcoming community is ready to help you settle in and thrive.

Riley County: Where Careers and Community Meet

This is more than just a new job — it’s your opportunity to build a life in a place that values connection, innovation, and a genuine sense of belonging.

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.

This program is sponsored by Riley County and The State of Kansas.

Riley County, Kansas is a vibrant and welcoming place, known for its strong ties to education, research, and community spirit. Nestled in the scenic Flint Hills region, the county offers a unique mix of natural beauty, small-town charm, and economic opportunity. The county is home to Kansas State University in Manhattan, a leading institution that drives innovation, cultural activity, and a youthful energy throughout the region. With Tuttle Creek Lake and miles of open prairie, residents enjoy year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking and biking in the rolling hills. 

Riley County

 Live and Work Local in Riley County, Kansas

Work from Anywhere: Live Fully in Emporia

Welcome to Emporia, Kansas: a vibrant small town nestled in the scenic Flint Hills, where world-class adventure meets authentic community living. Known as both the Gravel Cycling Capital and the Disc Golf Capital of the World, Emporia offers more than just postcard-worthy views - it offers a lifestyle rooted in connection, creativity, and wide-open opportunity.

Emporia is not just a place for outdoor adventurers but lovers of art, music, and culture too! Check out this video and see why Emporia might be perfect for you to experience all of the arts in your new home.

Whether you're winding down a gravel trail after a remote workday, enjoying a downtown block party, or joining neighbors for a round of disc golf, Emporia makes it easy to feel like you belong. With a walkable historic downtown, dynamic arts and culture scene, and a warm, inclusive community spirit, life here feels both peaceful and purposeful.

Let us show you what it's like to live fully in Emporia: where the pace is yours to set and the possibilities are wide open.

From your first day in Emporia, you’ll feel right at home! Enjoy a 

 to get to know the community, unwind with 

 takes one more thing off your to-do list. It’s everything you need to settle in, relax, and start living like a local!

Whether you're looking for more space, more nature, or just more community, Emporia welcomes you with open arms—and plenty of ways to thrive.

This program is sponsored by The Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and The State of Kansas.

Learn more about the Emporia community below.

Emporia, Kansas is a vibrant small town in the Flint Hills where remote workers can enjoy world-class cycling, disc golf, and a warm, welcoming community. With a walkable downtown, rich local culture, and space to live fully, Emporia offers the perfect blend of work-life balance and adventure.

Emporia

Live and Work Remote in Emporia

First week free childcare at Little Lyons Childcare

Emporia in a Basket (gift cards to restaurants, experiences, and/or events)

Personalized tour of the Emporia area and the local hospital

1-year newspaper subscription to the Emporia Gazette

From Community to Career: Make Your Move to Ottawa 


Ottawa is hiring — and we’re excited to welcome you into a community where opportunity, connection, and quality of life come together.

Ottawa offers the perfect balance of professional opportunity and small-town warmth — where careers grow, families thrive, and community runs deep. Here’s what you’ll find:

 across manufacturing, healthcare, education, and local business — with employers who value work-life balance and community engagement.

 with charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and easy access to nearby amenities in Ottawa and the greater Kansas City area.

 with local favorites like Ottawa’s downtown boutiques, coffee shops, and community events that make newcomers feel right at home.

 – Check out current openings through Ottawa’s trusted job search resources and local employment sites.

 – Reach out to employers who are actively hiring and ready to welcome new talent to the area.

 – Make your move with confidence—Ottawa's friendly community is here to help you settle in and succeed.

Here are some great resources to help you explore local employment opportunities in the area. Click 

 to begin your job search and discover openings across the area.

As a reminder, Ottawa is not a recruiter and can’t place you directly in a position—but we’re here to support your journey with local insights, introductions, and guidance as you find your next opportunity.

This is more than just a new job—it’s your opportunity to build a life in a city that values connection, creativity, and a true sense of belonging.

Welcome to Ottawa City, a charming and vibrant community where small-town warmth meets big opportunity. Stroll through a lively downtown filled with local shops, cozy cafés, and family-owned restaurants. Enjoy scenic escapes at nearby Pomona Lake or along the Prairie Spirit Trail, perfect for hiking, biking, and weekend adventures.

Ottawa City offers the best of both worlds — a close-knit community that celebrates connection, creativity, and progress, all within easy reach of the Kansas City metro. Whether you’re building your career locally or looking for a fresh start in a place that feels like home, Ottawa City is where you’ll find your balance.

 Live and Work Local in Ottawa, Kansas 

We're ready to help you find your place right here in Muncie!

Looking for a place that feels like home from day one? Muncie, Indiana, is calling your name! With its perfect blend of historic charm and modern opportunity, Muncie is a vibrant community where you can put down roots, make an impact, and enjoy an amazing quality of life—all while getting rewarded for your move! 

Explore the Perks of Life in Muncie, Indiana

Nestled in East Central Indiana, Muncie blends Midwestern hospitality with the vibrancy of a college town. Home to Ball State University, the city offers a thriving arts and culture scene, innovative coworking spaces, and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy a revitalized downtown, scenic trails, accessible public amenities, and affordable living. With cash relocation incentives, access to university resources, coworking opportunities, and community connection programs, we’ve put together a package of benefits to help you get settled, get involved, and start thriving in Muncie from day one:

Receive $5,000 to help with your move to Muncie—whether it’s covering moving expenses, a security deposit, or setting up your new home in this vibrant, forward-thinking city.

Co-working Space Courtesy of The Innovation Connector: 

Work in a professional, entrepreneurial environment with a free workspace at The Innovation Connector, Muncie’s hub for startups, remote workers, and small businesses. Enjoy high-speed internet, networking events, and access to business support services.

Access to the Ball State University Library: 

Get free access to Ball State’s Bracken Library, a top-tier academic library offering a vast collection of digital and print resources, quiet study areas, and research tools perfect for professionals, students, and lifelong learners.

One Semester Rec Fit Pass at Ball State University: 

Stay active with access to Ball State’s state-of-the-art Student Recreation and Wellness Center. The pass includes cardio and weight training equipment, indoor tracks, group fitness classes, and recreational courts.

 Cheer on the Cardinals with discounted tickets to Division I games, including football, basketball, and volleyball. Experience the excitement of college sports and campus energy firsthand.

Help Desk for Connecting to Local Resources: 

Get personalized support from a local help desk designed to connect you to city services, community organizations, child care, job opportunities, and more—so you can settle in smoothly.

Engage with the Muncie community at a deeper level by serving on a nonprofit or civic board. It’s a chance to lend your voice, share your skills, and help shape the city’s future.

Get moving and meet your neighbors with a complimentary six-month membership to the Muncie YMCA, featuring fitness equipment, pools, group classes, child care, and family-friendly programs.

 and personal Muncie welcome guide! 🎉 From the moment you start planning your move, she’ll be there to answer your questions, share insider tips, and make sure you feel right at home. And when you roll into town, expect a warm Muncie-style welcome! 👋

Muncie is where the barista knows your order, neighbors become friends, and the whole city feels like family. From lively downtown spots to scenic trails, you’ll feel at home fast - and we’ll help you get connected through networking groups, volunteer opportunities, and local events to make lifelong friends along the way.

This program is sponsored by the City of Muncie with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Explore the Muncie community more below! 

Carla Donahue

Remote Worker

Located just over an hour northeast of Indianapolis, Muncie possesses a small-town college vibe without forgoing big-city amenities. Home to Ball State University, the city features arts and entertainment attractions, sporting events, and unique neighborhoods that offer plenty for the whole family - or just a night out with friends.


Muncie

Find Your Place in Muncie

Co-working space courtesy of The Innovation Connector

Access to the Ball State University Library

1 semester Rec Fit pass at Ball State University

Help Desk for connecting to local resources

Build Your Career, Belong in Wayne County

"Since moving to Richmond, Indiana, we’ve felt nothing but welcome. We love exploring everything the city offers — shopping at the farmers market, discovering new farm stands, dancing to live music at the orchard, cooling off at splash pads, joining in Depot events, and enjoying fireworks at Glen Miller Park and the Wayne County Fair."


– Ashleigh D., recent Wayne County mover

Welcome to Wayne County, Indiana, a place where career opportunity meets small-town warmth, and where your future can truly take root. With the 

 program, we’re helping job seekers like you find more than just a paycheck, we’re helping you build a life.

Wayne County is more than a place—it’s a community on the rise. Nestled along the Ohio border and within reach of major metros like Indianapolis, Dayton, and Cincinnati, Richmond and its neighboring towns offer:

 in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and community services

 with pathways to homeownership that won’t break your budget

, from historic architecture and museums to local theaters and arts events

, including parks, rivers, and trails perfect for hiking, biking, and family fun

 where neighbors know your name and welcome you with open arms

Here, you don’t just work—you belong.

 — Receive financial support to make your move to Wayne County stress-free and rewarding

 — Connect with local partners who help you find housing, navigate schools, and settle in quickly

 — Meet employers, civic leaders, and neighbors eager to welcome you into the Wayne County family

 — Kick off your journey with local goodies, insider tips, and resources to help you feel right at home

Wayne County’s economy reflects both its manufacturing legacy and its forward-looking workforce:

Manufacturing is Wayne County’s backbone, with major employers producing automotive components, cables, and plastics. Companies like Belden, Primex Plastics, TBK America, and Osborn International offer both skilled and entry level roles in engineering, production, and quality operations.

Wayne County’s growing food production sector includes Hills Pet Nutrition and SugarCreek Packing Co., providing steady roles in operations, packaging, maintenance, and management.

As a regional medical hub, Wayne County is home to Reid Health, Centerstone, and Friends Fellowship Community, creating opportunities in nursing, administration, counseling, and senior care.

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics: 

With easy access to I-70, the county attracts logistics and warehousing operations, supporting distribution roles and supply-chain management careers across the region.

Wayne County is an education center for east-central Indiana, anchored by Indiana University East, Ivy Tech Community College, and Richmond Community Schools, offering roles in teaching, student services, and administration.

: Submit your application to the Choose Wayne County program

: Get matched with local job resources and employers

: Once you secure a job, confirm your eligibility and relocation details

: Claim your relocation package and start your new life

: Build your career and community in Wayne County—and invite others to join you

Making a move can feel daunting, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Kristal and her team are here to help you every step of the way, from helping you find local employers to securing housing and settling into your new community. They’ll connect you with resources, introduce you to hiring partners, and make sure your transition to Southern Indiana is smooth, supported, and full of opportunity. Apply today to start the process.

This program is sponsored by Wayne County with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Learn more about Wayne County and the communities in it below!

Patricia Motta

Moved to Richmond

Located on the eastern edge of Indiana, Wayne County offers the perfect blend of career opportunity and community charm. Anchored by the historic city of Richmond, the county is known for its strong manufacturing base, healthcare systems, and growing industries that provide a variety of workforce opportunities.Beyond career options, Wayne County boasts a rich cultural and recreational scene. From the scenic Whitewater River Gorge to the rolling countryside, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. The area is also home to vibrant arts, music, and historic districts, including the famous “Antique Alley,” drawing visitors from across the region.

Richmond

Build Your Career and Belong in Wayne County, Indiana

1 month membership to Forest Hills Country Club

1 year membership to the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce

PLUS your choice of one of the following packages:

Arts Package: Richmond Symphony Orchestra season tickets, Richmond Community Theater season tickets, Richmond Art Museum membership 

History Package: Memberships to Joseph Moore Museum, Wayne County Historical Museum, and Model T Museum

Outdoor Recreation Package: Family membership to Cope Environmental Center and Hayes Arboretum, 2 annual memberships to Highland Lake Golf Course

Fitness Package: Family pass to Cordell Community Pool, 2 annual memberships to Family Fitness Works, and 2 carpediam registrations to a running season (8 races per person) with Wayne County Challenge


Bloomington isn’t just a place to live — it’s a community of creators, thinkers, and doers. Move here, and we’ll help you feel at home right away — with best-in-class perks, connection, and support.


Enjoy access to Bloomington’s landmark coworking space — a dynamic environment of entrepreneurs, creatives, and remote professionals.


Get 1:1 coaching from a startup expert, access specialized programming, and unlock the resources you need to launch or scale your ventures.

Bloomington is for everyone! Arriving for the first time, you might think you're in Colorado or the Pacific Northwest, rather than nestled in the Midwest. We have all the opportunities of a big city, with a quieter and more relaxed pace of life, so you never run out of fun activities or great people to meet. Home to Indiana University, Bloomington combines all the best aspects of Midwest hospitality, with the rich diversity of international fusion.  From young professionals to families, sports fans to outdoor lovers, artists to entrepreneurs, Bloomington has a little something for everyone – including you.  We can’t wait to welcome you to life in Bloomington!

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For Economic Developers