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Looking for a fresh start in a lakeside community? A Wisconsin city is hoping to attract new residents by offering thousands of dollars in cash and local perks to prospective residents.
Fond du Lac, a city of about 44,000 people on the south shore of Lake Winnebago, has launched a talent attraction program offering incentives of up to $9,500 to qualified recruits. The initiative is part of the MakeMyMove program, which partners with communities across the country to attract workers through relocation packages and lifestyle benefits.
Local leaders say the program is aimed at addressing labor shortages while attracting young workers and families to the area.
What does the $9,500 relocation package include?
Eligible participants will receive a cash relocation grant of $5,500, along with a collection of on-site experiences and memberships valued at approximately $4,000.
This package includes Fond du Lac Family YMCA membership, golf benefits, VIP access to arts and cultural attractions, a baseball experience with the FDL Dock Spiders, a library pass, and dining experiences. Additional benefits highlight local agriculture, family activities, and community events.
Fond du Lac is the first community in Wisconsin to join the MakeMyMove platform, joining other cities across the country offering incentives to attract new residents.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, currently reside outside of Wisconsin, and have an annual household income of at least $55,000, according to MakeMyMove.
Participants must move their primary residence to Fond du Lac County and commit to living there for at least one year. Those applying through the Local Worker Program must secure full-time employment in Fond du Lac County. While remote workers are eligible for the remote work track, they have local employment opportunities available through alternative relocation routes.
Local coordinators will help approved participants navigate the transportation process and connect with local resources upon arrival.
Why is Fond du Lac offering incentives?
Community leaders say the incentives are part of a broader effort to address labor shortages and prepare for demographic changes in the coming years.
Envision Greater Fond du Lac, Fond du Lac County, and Fond du Lac County Capital Resources also operate separate worker relocation incentive programs aimed at helping local employers recruit talent from outside the area. Officials say an aging population and upcoming retirements are exacerbating workforce challenges and creating a need to attract new workers and families to the county.
Communities tout affordability, lakefront recreation, family-friendly amenities, and a growing employment base as reasons for moving. Residents, who often refer to the town as “Fondi,” enjoy year-round access to Lake Winnebago for fishing, sailing, windsurfing, ice skating, and the annual Sturgeon Spectacular Winter Festival.
How to apply
Applications can be made through the MakeMyMove platform, where interested applicants can check eligibility requirements and submit a transfer request. Community representatives will then work with selected applicants to verify eligibility and assist in their transition to Fond du Lac.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or X @athompsonUSAT.
