MILWAUKEE — A new program is providing up to $9,000 in relocation reimbursement for non-Wisconsin residents to move to Milwaukee.
The program, called Milwaukee Fresh, is an initiative from Employ Milwaukee designed to attract workers in high-demand fields, including health care, engineering, information technology, biotechnology and public service.
Employ Milwaukee President and CEO Julie Cayo joined WTMJ’s Wisconsin’s Midday News to explain how the program works and who qualifies.
Cayo said applicants must currently live outside Wisconsin, establish residency within Milwaukee city limits and have a household income of at least $55,000. The amount of relocation assistance available depends on household size.
“We’re recruiting not just talent, we’re welcoming neighbors,” Cayo said.
In addition to financial assistance, the program offers housing support through Milwaukee Real Estate Collective and community outings and networking opportunities coordinated by OnMilwaukee.
The program is funded through a grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. The program aims to assist approximately 25-50 households through December 2028.
Applications are already open with Cayo reporting more than 14 applications received shortly after the program launched. Tennessee and Illinois have been the leading source of applicants so far.
