West Michigan Rooted
AT A GLANCE
Application
MakeMyMove will help you along the way
Package Highlights
Additional Benefits, Money & Financial Support, Memberships & Community
Ideal for
Jobseekers ready for a fresh start
Value
Up to $5,000 across 6 benefits
West Michigan Rooted
AT A GLANCE
Application
MakeMyMove will help you along the way
Package Highlights
Additional Benefits, Money & Financial Support, Memberships & Community
Ideal for
Jobseekers ready for a fresh start
Value
Up to $5,000 across 6 benefits
What’s Included - Up to $5,000 in Value
Explore the incentives and perks included in this program.
Money & Financial Support
Relocation & Job-Readiness Financial Assistance
Access financial assistance for key relocation and employment needs, including rent or down payment help, student loan forgiveness, transportation, childcare, and job-readiness tools.
Memberships & Community
Career Coaching & Professional Re-Credentialing
Get expert career coaching and personalized support to navigate re-entry into your trained field, including assistance with foreign credential evaluation.
Upskilling & Employer-Sponsored Training Guidance
Access personalized upskilling pathways and direct connections to employer-sponsored training programs to advance your career locally
Community Resource & Support System Navigation
Connect with dedicated resource navigators who assist you in accessing essential community services, local networks, and regional support systems.
High-Demand Field & Language Skills Training
Take advantage of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, on-the-job training, and industry certifications in healthcare, IT, construction, and advanced manufacturing.
Gallery
Tap a photo to learn more.
Additional Benefits
Immigration & Visa Legal Guidance
Receive legal assistance tailored for international students on CPT or OPT visas working toward permanent residency in West Michigan.
$5,000Program Value
6 Benefits
Am I eligible?
You may qualify for the West Michigan Rooted program if 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
You will establish your primary permanent residence in West Michigan (eligible counties include Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, and Ottawa)
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
Meet the Program Manager
Trevor—your dedicated program sponsor and personal West Michigan welcome guide! Trevor works for West Michigan Works!, and he’s here to answer your questions and help you feel right at home. Simply submit an application to get in touch.
West Michigan Program Photo Gallery
Take a closer look at everything this program has to offer, from the location to the benefits to the neighbors.
Living in West Michigan
Learn about where you could live, before you get there. The below Places are eligible relocation destinations for this Program.
We’ve helped 4,000+ people move since 2021.
West Michigan Rooted 🌿
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
Find Your Job in West Michigan
Program Sponsors
Sponsored by West Michigan Works! with support from the Michigan Growth Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Discover Places and Vibes
Get a feel for different cities and towns through the eyes of locals. Insider stories, photos, and Q&A help you connect
Find Your Program & Apply
Browse relocation programs designed to warmly welcome new residents. With QuickApply, you can connect with a program in just minutes.
Track Your Progress
Once you’ve applied, we work alongside your local program team to help you secure your spot, find a home, and settle into your new community.
Stay in the loop
We'll notify you with any updates on this program.