31-03-2025
MakeMyMove initiative sparks national interest in Central Indiana
In 2020, a group of Indianapolis-based economic development professionals decided to try something different.
Rather than attracting businesses to the community, why not attract individuals, specifically remote workers, to the community?
'We're in 17 states right now and Indiana is the first in the nation to have a statewide recruitment program,' MakeMyMove COO Evan Hock said. 'With 34 local programs across the state, all of it is sponsored by Indianan Economic Development funds.'
Those interested in moving to Indiana can apply on the MakeMyMove website and receive thousands of dollars in incentives.
Communities set up their own incentive programs.
'Noblesville, for example, has $15,000 in cash and amenities, including memberships to the Chamber and the local co-working space," Hock said. "You can pick your spot based on the region and the program they offer.'
Zionsville is participating. So is Muncie, Greenwood and everywhere in between.
The incentives are meant to help movers get involved and explore the community they've chosen. The closer they are to Indianapolis, options like tickets to racing events, sporting events and more are available.
Participants must be moving in from out of state and they must bring a remote job with them.
The organization's goal is to recruit 50 new households by the end of May 2025 and Hock said they are 10 percent of the way there with many more in the pipeline of the application process.
Central Indiana has proven to be an attractive option.
According to Payscale, housing in Indianapolis is 22% lower than the national average and the cost of living is 10% less.
'The first mover we had came to McCordsville. They were able to get a home with more space and a different pace of life. It's whatever suits your preference,' Hock said. 'It's a new way for communities to grow and we're continuing to scale up the program.'
It's a win-win for everyone, according to Hock.
Not only are there incentives for families moving in, but it's also a great opportunity for the economic vitality of the community.
'We have a software engineer from Silicon Valley come to Indy and they're bringing that spending power with them," Hock said. "Remote workers are free agents and they are coming in from California, Texas and Florida looking for affordability and community connections. They're finding that in places like Zionsville and Lebanon.'
For more information on the program, visit the website at
