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CEDAR RAPIDS — How much would someone need to pay you to pack up your life and move across state lines?
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and its partners are hoping the answer is around $5,600 — the amount now offered to remote workers willing to relocate to Cedar Rapids, Marion or Hiawatha.
The incentives are available to out-of-state remote workers making at least $55,000 a year who commit to relocating within six months. The relocation package includes a $5,000 stipend, free Economic Alliance membership and vouchers to area recreational opportunities.
“This initiative is more than a move. It’s an invitation to join a connected, forward-thinking community,” Jodi Schafer, talent attraction director at the Economic Alliance, said in a news release. “We’re offering a soft landing and a warm welcome to those looking for their next chapter.”
The partnership with MakeMyMove — an online service connecting remote workers to cities with relocation incentives — is one prong of the
ongoing Collaborative Growth Initiative,
a public-private partnership to bolster resident recruitment and retention.
The initiative
began in 2023
as a collaboration between the cities of Cedar Rapids, Hiawatha and Marion and the Economic Alliance.
The remote worker recruitment campaign aims to secure some “quick wins” by moving 15 workers to the region by the end of the initiative’s first year. Interested candidates
apply on MakeMyMove
and — if selected — are connected with relocation resources and incentives.
“We’re not just attracting talent. We’re building community,” Schafer said. “MakeMyMove Greater Cedar Rapids aligns with our mission to support workforce growth, energize our cities, and create lasting connections for new residents.”
The project’s second phase will focus on the launch of a talent acquisition website and agency marketing campaigns to showcase area employers, open jobs, housing opportunities and other community resources to secure more movers long term.
The Collaborative Growth Initiative is funded through a mix of city funds and those from the Economic Alliance with the long-term goal being to decrease municipal contributions over time through private fundraising.
The city of Cedar Rapids recently approved its $327,500 portion of the year one funding, and Hiawatha City Council members
approved their $21,6000 portion
on July 2. Marion City Council is expected to vote on its $87,000 portion at a future meeting.
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