West Michigan Rooted
Total Incentive
$5,000
Description
West Michigan Rooted 🌿
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
Find Your Job in West Michigan
Rooted in opportunity, this program is your chance to grow in West Michigan.
Let’s build your future—right here.
This program is sponsored by West Michigan Works! with support from the Michigan Growth Office.
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.
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.
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
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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.