Southern Indiana Business Report
VINCENNES – As part of an aggressive 2026 talent and business attraction strategy, Knox County is joining a national program known for bringing professionals and remote workers to communities.
Knox County Indiana Economic Development will participate in MakeMyMove to attract out-of-state workers to the southwest Indiana county.
Chris Pfaff, CEO of KCIED, said several new developments in the county made the timing right to add a talent attraction program.
“Knox County is prepared to capitalize on our progress by elevating the county’s broad array of opportunity and capacity,” said Pfaff. “We’ve built real momentum with expansions in manufacturing, significant new housing development, and growing employer interest. Now we’re pairing that with a comprehensive talent recruitment program – and we hold high expectations.”
Counties offer incentive packages to potential movers. In Indiana, incentives range from $5,000 to more than $10,000, depending on the program.
The Knox County MakeMyMove program offers out-of-state remote workers and professionals an incentive package that includes $5,000 in relocation assistance, coupled with local business and community partnerships that provide:
- Six months of free co-working at The Pantheon with high-speed internet and professional workspace
- Family YMCA membership with waived joining fees
- Knox County Chamber of Commerce membership
- Vincennes University sports passes and community event access
- Local business perks including printing services, childcare resources and real estate support
“These incentives can make a real difference for people facing the issues that can come with an out-of-state move,” explained Mary Jo Wallin-Orlowski, director of Business Development for KCIED. “We’ve assembled a comprehensive welcome package that addresses the real barriers to relocation – finding quality workspace, connecting to the community, accessing childcare and fitness resources. When prospective movers see what Knox County Indiana offers, the decision becomes clear.”
About 30 other communities in Indiana already participate in MakeMyMove. A news release from KCIED says the county’s affordability and job opportunities in agribusiness and Industry 4.0 manufacturing are appealing attributes. New opportunities in housing are also on the horizon.
Bierhaus Flats, a $35 million mixed-use apartment complex, will deliver 24 market-rate units in June, followed by phased expansion of 200+ additional units through 2027.
“We’re seeing unprecedented demand,” said Phil Reinbrecht, president of Simplified Developments. “Even with construction ongoing, prospective residents are lining up for Bierhaus Flats. There’s real momentum here – people recognize Knox County is changing, and they want to be part of it.”
The state reimburses participating counties for more than half of the program cost.
“New households bring tax revenue and spending that immediately benefits local businesses,” Pfaff said. “From an economic development standpoint, this is highly efficient talent recruitment.”
The program aims to bring in 15 new out-of-state households by December 2026. Eligibility requires full-time employment with relocation capacity, $55,000+ annual income, and willingness to relocate within six months. Interested applicants can apply at MakeMyMove.com.