Discover Southwest Michigan
Total Incentive
$14,000
Description
Careers & Coastlines: Discover Southwest Michigan
Looking for your next adventure and your next job? 🌊 Welcome to Southwest Michigan, where career opportunity meets lakeside living. Whether you’re launching your future or planting roots in a vibrant, close-knit community, this is the place where careers grow, coastlines inspire, and quality of life comes standard.
Start Fresh, Stay Inspired
From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to historic downtowns and rolling vineyards, this region offers big-city opportunities with small-town charm. Here, it’s not just about finding work—it’s about loving where you live.
Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a seasoned expert looking for change, the Discover Southwest Michigan program helps you move with purpose.
Meet Molly McFadden — your first friendly face in Southwest Michigan! As the Program Manager for Discover Southwest Michigan, 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 nonprofits and a passion for building community.
"I don't know why anyone would want to live anywhere else." - Molly
What’s Included?
🏠 $5,000 in Down Payment Assistance
Buying your first home in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren County? We’ll chip in. This incentive helps first-time homebuyers make the move with confidence. (Eligibility rules apply)
💼 Support for Your Spouse, Too
Your partner’s career matters—we’ll connect them to job opportunities, local networks, and ways to get involved.
🗺 Personalized Community Tours
Not sure where to land? We’ll help you explore! Enjoy a free, custom tour of Southwest Michigan—get to know the local spots, meet community ambassadors, and discover what makes each town unique.
🏫 Help Navigating School Enrollment
From public to private to school of choice, we’ll walk you through your options and make the process smooth for your whole family.
🎓 Free Tuition at Lake Michigan College
If you (or your kids!) qualify, you can earn a degree tuition-free at LMC. It’s a game-changing opportunity for those ready to skill up or start fresh.
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.