Employers Can Turn Make My Move Into a Competitive Hiring Tool to Attract High-Quality Talent

The Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation’s Make My Move program offers a $9,000 incentive package to qualified new residents. While the program is attracting attention from prospective talent, local employers can use it more effectively to help bolster their recruitment efforts.

Used strategically, this incentive can give companies in engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, legal, accounting and education industries a measurable advantage in securing top candidates.

Position the Incentive as a Sign-On Bonus With Clear Eligibility

When posting open positions, hiring managers can highlight the $9,000 Make My Move benefit as part of the total compensation package. Present it in the same way you would a sign-on bonus, with clear details about how and when it is paid. This transparency helps candidates see its immediate value and compare it directly with competing offers in other markets.

Eligible applicants must:

• Earn at least $70,000 annually
• Be 18 years or older
• Live at least 70 miles outside the Jacksonville Region at the time of application
• Relocate to Scott County or Morgan County within six months of acceptance
• Maintain residency for one year before receiving the $5,000 cash portion of the incentive

Priority is given to applicants taking local jobs in the targeted industries, though remote workers are also eligible.

Use it to Differentiate Your Opportunity From Other Markets

A $9,000 relocation incentive is rare in markets of Jacksonville’s size. When competing against employers in nearby metros, position this program as a cost-offset for relocation expenses, temporary housing, or other move-related costs. This incentive can be particularly persuasive for candidates evaluating offers in comparable salary ranges.

Promote the Benefit Early in the Hiring Process

Do not wait until the offer stage to mention Make My Move. Include it in job postings, career fairs, LinkedIn outreach and initial phone screens. The inclusion of this incentive ensures the program is part of a candidate’s first impression of the role and region.

Collaborate With HR and Recruitment Teams

Provide your HR staff and external recruiters with talking points about the program. Ensure they can explain eligibility, timelines and the application process. The more comfortable your team is with the details, the more effectively they can use them as a closing tool during negotiations.

Partner With JREDC to Maximize Impact

The JREDC can supply digital materials, program FAQs and direct support for employer-led outreach. Employers can also co-market their positions on JREDC channels to reach prospective applicants already exploring relocation to the Jacksonville region.

Employers interested in integrating Make My Move into their recruitment strategy should contact JREDC today to access program materials and discuss co-marketing opportunities.