Georgia Community Aims to Attract More Talent with $8,700 incentive

Columbus, Georgia Invites Remote Workers: 2025 MakeMyMove Program Now Accepting Applications

Angela Tuell, Communications Redefined, info@commredefined.com

Applications are now open for the Columbus Remote Worker Incentive Program, designed to attract talented individuals and families to the growing community. Selected applicants will receive a $5,000 cash incentive and an exclusive benefits package valued at over $3,700, including access to local events, co-working spaces, and unique community experiences.

Following the resounding success of the 2024 program, which drew over 7,000 applicants and brought 12 new families to the community, Columbus is expanding the program, with a goal to attract 24 households in 2025 – doubling last year’s cohort.

“The 2024 program exceeded our expectations,” said Columbus 2025 Executive Director Tabetha Getz. “While last year we focused on a pilot program with a smaller cohort, we anticipate doubling the number of participants every year going forward. Building on that momentum, we’re excited to welcome even more remote workers who can enjoy the unique combination of community, culture, and affordability Columbus offers.”

What’s New in 2025?

In addition to the $5,000 cash incentive and $3,200 in community integration perks, the 2025 program introduces the $500 Columbus Experience Package. This new benefit can be used for tickets to local events like Columbus Clingstones Baseball, Springer Opera House and RiverCenter shows, and other local attractions, connecting newcomers with the community.

Eligibility criteria remain the same:

• Full-time remote employment with an annual salary of at least $75,000
• Residence at least 75 miles outside Columbus, with plans to move to Muscogee County within six months
• Commitment to living in Columbus for a minimum of one year

The program is expected to fill quickly, thanks to its proximity to Atlanta and the strong interest generated in 2024.

“Recruiting remote workers isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about building community and creating lasting economic benefits,” said MakeMyMove Co-founder and COO Evan Hock. “Columbus is showing other cities how to successfully attract talented people.”

Interested applicants can learn more and apply at www.makemymove.com/get-paid/columbus-georgia.

Highlights of the 2024 Program:

• 7,000+ Applicants from 36 states
• $2 Million Annual Economic Impact
• $1.57 Million in Muscogee County Real Estate Purchases
• $8.5 Million Projected Five-Year Economic Impact

Among the new residents is Jennafer Lester, who returned to Columbus after two decades in Atlanta. Lester, who relocated to Columbus through the program last year, works remotely in the tech industry and was drawn to the program by the opportunity to reconnect with her hometown. Lester was a student at the Springer Opera House’s Springer Theatre Academy for almost 10 years, and today enjoys the opportunity to pour back into an organization that shaped many aspects of her personal and professional growth.

“I've been incredibly impressed by the opportunities to get involved and truly immerse myself in this vibrant city,” said Lester. “Since moving to Columbus, I joined the Board of Directors at the Springer Opera House, State Theatre of Georgia. It's been truly fulfilling to connect with the city’s rich arts and culture scene and contribute to the future of arts in our community.”

About Columbus 2025: Columbus 2025 is an economic and community development strategy to create a more competitive and prosperous Chattahoochee Valley Region. The guiding principles of the plan are to increase prosperity, reduce poverty, and improve the overall quality of life for a stronger and more vibrant region for decades to come. For more information, visit: www.ColumbusGA2025.com

About MakeMyMove: MakeMyMove is the country’s first and only online marketplace where remote workers can explore the communities that are incentivizing their relocations. Since launching in December 2020, more than 2,000 remote workers and their families have found and relocated to new communities through the platform.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250130313327/en/