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Michigan

West Michigan Rooted

West Michigan Rooted offers personalized support to help you succeed and stay rooted in Michigan: 
Legal assistance for international students on CPT or OPT who are working toward permanent residency
Barrier removal support such as rent or down payment assistance, student loan forgiveness, transportation, childcare, or other job-readiness needs
Career coaching and help navigating re-entry into your trained profession, including support for re-credentialing
Upskilling guidance and access to employer-sponsored training programs
Resource navigation to connect you with community services and support systems
Training opportunities such as English as a Second Language (ESL), on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and industry-recognized certifications in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, construction, and advanced manufacturing
Total Incentive
$5,000
Waitlisted program — incentive fulfillment is currently paused or delayed.

Description

West Michigan Rooted - Coming Soon! 🌿


Rooted in Opportunity: Outreach, Training, Employment, and Development

West Michigan is a place where careers take root and communities grow strong—and we’re here to help you be part of it.


West Michigan Rooted is a new program designed to support individuals who are launching or advancing their careers in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, advanced manufacturing, and more. If you’re already working or planning to work in the region, you could be eligible for up to $5,000 in support—plus personalized resources to help you stay and thrive.


Whether you're an international student navigating your career path in the U.S., a professional seeking to re-enter your trained field, or someone working to overcome challenges on the road to long-term stability, this program is built with you in mind.


Support may include:

  • Legal guidance for international students on CPT or OPT
  • Rent, transportation, or childcare assistance
  • Career coaching and re-credentialing support
  • Employer-connected training and upskilling
  • Navigation to community services and job-readiness resources

Rooted in opportunity, this program is your chance to grow in West Michigan.


Applications will open soon. Let’s build your future—right here.

West Michigan

This program is sponsored by West Michigan Works! with support from the Michigan Growth Office.

Participating Communities

Eligibility Requirements

You may qualify for the West Michigan Rooted program if any of the following apply:

  • You are 18 years old or older

  • You are international student currently working in the U.S. on a CPT or OPT visa

  • You earned your professional credentials outside the U.S. and are working to re-enter your trained field

  • You are facing employment-related challenges that could make it hard to stay in Michigan

  • You want to update your skills to enter a high-demand field—so you can grow your career here or make Michigan your new home

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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.

What is MakeMyMove?

MakeMyMove is the first-ever marketplace connecting movers with relocation programs, provided by communities across the country actively recruiting new residents. We help you find the right place and get there, and we help communities grow through talent attraction.

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.