WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. — A $5,000 relocation incentive and a package of local memberships are part of Wayne County’s effort to attract new neighbors, with separate MakeMyMove programs for remote workers and people taking local jobs.
The Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County’s board approved a $100,000 renewal Sept. 14. At that meeting, MakeMyMove representative Ryan Pike reported that the effort had attracted 50 households representing 109 residents.
The contract includes $55,000 in campaign costs and $45,000 in incentives, according to the EDC’s meeting minutes.
Who qualifies?
The remote-worker program targets people living outside Indiana who can move while keeping their full-time job or, if self-employed, their existing clients or portfolio.
Applicants must earn at least $55,000 annually, be U.S. citizens age 18 or older and relocate their primary residence to Wayne County within six months. Documentation is required to establish eligibility.
The listing currently displays a waitlist label alongside application information. Prospective participants should confirm availability with program administrators before planning a move.
A separate job-seeker program targets out-of-state residents who currently earn at least $20,000 and will secure full-time employment in Wayne County paying at least $55,000 annually throughout the program term. Citizenship, age, relocation and documentation requirements also apply.
More than moving money
MakeMyMove advertises both packages at up to $7,500 in total value, including the $5,000 cash incentive. Additional benefits include community memberships, an ambassador network and a choice of arts, history, outdoor recreation or fitness packages.
Acceptance and payment are subject to program requirements.
Questions behind the investment
During the September meeting, board members questioned whether recruitment brings remote jobs into the county or fills local positions, and how incentives interact with employer-paid relocation assistance.
EDC President Valerie Shaffer said employers’ existing moving benefits should be checked. The board approved the renewal following that discussion.
Prospective participants can review eligibility and contact program administrators through the MakeMyMove listings.
