Make My Move Greater Cedar Rapids Welcomes First Mover
August 28, 2025 | Community Development, Economic Development & Workforce
The cities of Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Hiawatha, in partnership with the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, are proud to announce the arrival of the first participant of the Make My Move Greater Cedar Rapids program, a new talent attraction initiative connecting professionals and families with opportunities in the region.
Hunter Baldus, who works remotely, is moving with his family from Denver, Colorado to Greater Cedar Rapids. His move represents an important milestone for the program, which launched earlier this year through a partnership with the national MakeMyMove platform. The program offers more than $8,500 in relocation incentives for qualified individuals, including a $5,000 cash relocation award, free Economic Alliance membership, local parks and recreation vouchers, and ongoing connections to community and regional perks.
Hunter was welcomed this afternoon by city leaders including Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell of Cedar Rapids, Dennis Marks, City Manager of Hiawatha, and Gage Miskimen, Mayor Pro Tem of Marion, underscoring the strong collaboration among the three cities and the Economic Alliance.
“Welcoming our first mover is an exciting moment for the Cedar Rapids Region,” said Juliet Abdel, President and CEO of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. “The Make My Move Greater Cedar Rapids program was made possible through the Collaborative Growth Initiative, with $436,000 in marketing support funded by the cities of Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Hiawatha. ”
“We are excited to welcome Hunter and his family to the Cedar Rapids Region,” said Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell. “This first move is a clear sign that our community is attracting new talent and families who see the value of living, working, and growing here. It is just the beginning of what we know will be many success stories through this program and we are thrilled to welcome Hunter to our community.”
“This is just the beginning,” said Jodi Schafer, Director of Workforce at the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. “We are thrilled to welcome Hunter and equally excited about the additional movers who are already in the pipeline. Greater Cedar Rapids is being discovered as a place where people can find both opportunity and a strong sense of community, and we cannot wait to continue growing this momentum.”
The Make My Move Greater Cedar Rapids program was made possible through the Collaborative Growth Initiative, with $436,000 in marketing support funded by the cities of Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Hiawatha. Their leadership and investment reflect a shared commitment to talent attraction, economic growth, and creating a welcoming experience for new residents.
To learn more about Make My Move Greater Cedar Rapids and explore eligibility, visit makemymove.com/get-paid/greater-cedar-rapids-iowa