After the pandemic I knew I wasnt going to go back to California, so I was in limbo looking for that next place to call a home base, she says. Since I had a remote job at the time, we might qualify. Over two years, about 500 people have moved to Tulsa under the program, Ben Stewart, the executive director, told me. Winter is chilly with chances of snow (and winter storm). But Tulsa Remote's backers anticipate some of the participants won't be remote workers forever. The Tulsa Remote program opened to applicants in November 2018. Just in case anyone is planning on applying: DO NOT TELL THEM YOU ARE OR HAVE PLANS TO MOVE TO TULSA. When selected applicants arrive in Tulsa, they get a warm welcome. The Tulsa Remote program started in 2018, and its core activity is the attraction of talented individuals to Tulsa (Oklahoma) via providing a financial incentive of $10,000 for remote. During our consideration, we liked that Tulsa is in the middle of the country, and there are so many opportunities for road trips! "This is about getting people to move to Tulsa," said Matt Fabian, a partner at Massachusetts-based Municipal Market Analytic, in a telephone interview with CBS News on Wednesday. ", "I am loving Tulsa. According to the study, the average annual income of program members is nearly $105,000. Here are some details of our move and our experience with the program and the city. Don't just take our word for it. Its a grant of $10,000 over the span of a year plus some other perks. Hidden Gems in Greater Palm Springs for Your Photographic Adventure! The deal includes $2,500 toward relocation costs, a $500 monthly stipend and a $1,500 bonus at the completion of 12 months in the city, according to the program's website. Tulsa Remote, a program that offers people $10,000 to move to Tulsa, Okla., for a year, started in the fall of 2018, but has seen a spike in demand during the pandemic. When Tulsa Remote first launched in the fall of 2018, Stewart says organizers were anticipating 15 to 20 applicants. Rent - $658 Tulsa vs. $2,669 Boston, 2 BR Avg. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. I am moving to your city in the next couple weeks. The Tulsa metro area is home to one million people, but its population growth has been slower than many other midsize cities in recent years. I was selected as a semifinalist for the Tulsa Remote program and my interview is next week. I saw an older post in this subreddit about some folks' experience with Tulsa Remote but was wondering if anyone else could weigh in on what the interview process was like? You have full-time remote employment or are self-employed outside of Oklahoma. With hundreds of acres of wilderness areas, urban parks and greenspaces, Tulsa offers countless opportunities to get outside, get some fresh air and explore. Were going to stay here for sure, she says. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Video interviews are conducted with each finalist selected. Tulsa was categorized by McKinsey Global Institute's recent Future of Work report as a "stable city" in the "mixed middle," described as having modest postrecession GDP and population growth, a prosperous past but uncertain future, and neither thriving . All Rights Reserved. The total drive time from LA to Tulsa straight shot is over 21 hours. The researchers estimate that one new full-time job was created in Tulsa for every two Remoters who moved there. Remote workers have high-paying jobs, and that income trickles out into Tulsa as they spend it. I had major cabin fever since we were cramped in our tiny apartment that we spent way too much for. Tulsa is seeking digital nomads to put their roots down here. I found out that I was accepted and just needed to move within the next 12 months the following week. Tulsa Remote is not the only program of its kind the state of Vermont announced a much-publicized. The initiative resulted in getting than 10,000 applications from over 150 countries. What kind of things did they ask? You are 18+ years old. What kind of remote work do you do? We've been featured in "My wife and I were looking for a place to raise our son and Tulsa has been a great fit for our family. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. . After I applied, I actually forgot about it, half thanks to the cocktails, half because I didn't think we would get in. function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} Please enter valid email address to continue. As we considered why Tulsa has been successful, I think its a lot of the place-making attributes that the foundation and the city have been focussed on over the last decade or so, he says. Tulsa Remote is a case study in how remote work can shift economic development, and it paints a hopeful picture for smaller cities. Space to run, play, climb and slide. The . LET THEM ENTICE YOU WITH THAT GRANT. by the Economic Innovation Group, a think tank, estimated Tulsa Remotes effect on the citys economy using standard models of economic development. Claire Tomm decided to apply to Tulsa Remote after hearing about it from a friend whod participated. Tulsa Remote launched in November 2018 in an effort to recruit a diverse group of talented professionals across multiple industries to relocate and be a part of the existing growth happening in Tulsa. Tulsa has unique neighborhoods, a nationally-recognized food scene, world-class music and theatre venues, and one of the best park systems in the country. From free coworking space to inspiring educational experiences, our program is designed to make you feel at home from your first day here. There is no deadline at this point, but we might close the application at any time, so people should apply now, said Bolzle. We'll give you some money to help with relocation expenses, a monthly stipend to keep things moving and the rest when you've finished the first year. Remote workers have high-paying jobs, and that income trickles out into Tulsa as they spend it. Thats the logic that leads EIGs models to estimate such a high payoff for Tulsa Remote. I am super curious about the program and process for those chosen to interview. The 2020 edition of the Tulsa Remote program seeks to welcome over 200 applicants. What it does have is a lower cost of living compared to other cities. We are still documenting and gathering data for all the ways the program has helped our community, said Bolzle. I am not going to lie; I was worried about safety because research says Tulsa is unsafe. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Life has not been the same since I first apply for TR and we can't wait to see where it will take us next! , found that Tulsa Remoters have higher real incomes (after accounting for living costs) than they did before the move likely driven in large part by cheaper housing. Those selected for the program must live within Tulsa city limits. More than 2,000 people have moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma because of Tulsa Remote, a program that pays remote workers $10,000 to move. A lot of that money stays in the local economy.. The emphasis is on weaving a social fabric among new arrivals and within the wider community. From free coworking space to inspiring educational experiences, our program is designed to make you feel at home from your first day here. Although the groups arent exactly comparable, the idea was that the differences between them provide decent estimates of how Tulsa Remote has affected those involved. Read employee reviews and ratings on Glassdoor to decide if Tulsa Remote is right for you. Housing in Tulsa costs about one fifth the price of housing in Los Angeles or New York. This was our first time doing a road trip this long. The interviewer asked a few standard questions like why I wanted to move to Tulsa, questions about my remote job, and if I had any questions or concerns about the city. For applicants that need to transition to remote work from a non-remote position, Tulsa Remote may require confirmation that they are able to work remotely. We'll pay for you to live here, too. So while I thought there would be more than one interview, it doesn't seem like it, unless visiting is mandatory with an in person interview happening at that time. Oklahoma is one of the very few states whose cities rely entirely on sales tax for the government operating costs, said Perry. I work remotely for an Oklahoma-based company. So I turned to Sen and asked if he was down to move to Tulsa, OK, with me if we got in. I've visited Tulsa a couple times and I agree, you Tulsans are very welcoming. We shouldnt underestimate how important the pure signaling alone is; thats certainly a big part of it, says Lettieri. I was moving either way and was actually already under contract on a house. You have full-time remote employment or are self-employed outside of Oklahoma. Tulsa Remote is a unique recruitment initiative aimed at attracting talented individuals to Tulsa. Rent - $658 Tulsa vs. $3,519 SF, 2 BR Avg. According to a report published by the Economic Innovation Group (EIG), for every dollar spent on the relocation incentive, $13.77 was generated in local labor income. The median family income was about 80 percent of the national average, according to the study. But there are challenges for other cities looking to copy the model. I got an email asking for a background check and income verification about two weeks after. It was definitely fun to see all the sights but very troublesome with all of our stuff in the car. In order to be eligible, applicants currently must reside outside of Oklahoma, be 18 years of age or older and can work and live in the United States. We have a couple of trips out of Oklahoma in the pipeline, so stay tuned for more on that. The program brings remote workers and digital nomads to the community by providing $10,000 grants and numerous community-building opportunities. The term remote employment refers to individuals who do not have to physically travel into their place of work on a daily basis. Then the applicants would get thanks for trying or congrats emails. Tulsa Remote does not sell your data. Three months after the move, Tomm switched jobs; she now works for a company in Michigan as a UX and design consultant. With the pandemic easing, work-from-home declining, and some companies pushing for a return to the office, Tulsas main competition might not be Wichita and Omaha but New York and Chicago. and our Also reason for wanting to move to Tulsa. I did not get accepted because I already had plans to move to Tulsa. In 2018, the George Kaiser Family Foundation launched Tulsa Remote, a program for people who can do their jobs from anywhere in the country. Perry spoke with CBS News in a telephone interview Wednesday. Well, It happened during the second lockdown in Los Angeles in 2020. Tulsa Remote is designed for individuals who have full-time remote employment with a company outside of Oklahoma. Our ideal candidate is open to calling Tulsa their home long-term and meets our core eligibility requirements: Full-time remote employment or self-employed outside Oklahoma. It was one of the most widely publicized bids by a city to become a hub for remote work and so far, its succeeding, according to two recent studies of the program. We even offer a $10,000 grant to help kick-start your new journey. The program organizes events and outings, and encourages Remoters to participate in local civic programs. LET THEM ENTICE YOU WITH THAT GRANT. Just in case anyone is planning on applying: DO NOT TELL THEM YOU ARE OR HAVE PLANS TO MOVE TO TULSA. This is an important part of the local economic development strategy, and the fact that it was designed and backed by a key local institution, in partnership with other local stakeholders, is a big part of the battle.. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Check out the Visit Tulsa page of our website. To make your move easier we've curated the best local apartments, centered around our thriving remote community at the heart of Tulsa. It is intended for individuals who are already employed outside of Oklahoma and are able to keep their position when relocating to Tulsa. The Oklahoma city is the focal point of Tulsa Remote, a program offering a $10,000 grant and additional incentives to selected . Its a win-win.. For example, if John Doe applies on September 1st, his partner must apply no later than September 14th to be considered. With internationally recognized coffee roasters and breweries, there's always a place to refuel. What to Expect When Visiting Horseshoe Bend, Arizona, Top 6 Things to Do in Oklahoma City: 48-Hour Guide. For Tulsa Remote members, that means individuals are working for a company located outside of Oklahoma. Over 90% stay beyond the year., Since moving to Tulsa this past June, Law has herself hired four locals, and has no intention of leaving once her term is up in the summer of 2022. While the program is only a one-year commitment, the ideal candidate is open to calling Tulsa their home long-term. I feel like every day is a surprise I literally find something new every day and my social life is even bigger than it was in New York. Launched in November 2018, the program aims at attracting individuals who already. Press J to jump to the feed. (function(h,o,t,j,a,r){ I should find out next week after they meet (apparently its usually weekly, but someone was out this week) on a yes or no from them. If selected for the program, do I have to live in Tulsa? The researchers explain that much of the value of the program comes from ongoing contributions to the local economy, after the one-year requirement has expired. This means we will be spending at least another year in Tulsa and will be growing our company here in the city. "If you can come to town, and bring your job here, it can be a home run.". Yes. Funded by George Kaiser Family Foundation, Tulsa Remote has basic requirements. A second analysis by the Economic Innovation Group, a think tank, estimated Tulsa Remotes effect on the citys economy using standard models of economic development. And, perhaps most importantly, how many remote workers want to move in the first place? Theyre really big on what you are able to bring to the community. The so-called superstar cities are still winning, both for in-office jobs and even for work-from-home. At least 12 dead after winter storm slams South, Midwest, The Saturday Six: Dental device controversy, scientist's bug find and more, Indonesia fuel depot fire kills 18; more than a dozen missing, 3 children killed, 2 others wounded at Texas home, Man charged for alleged involvement in 2 transformer explosions, Nikki Haley slams potential GOP contenders, and Trump and George W. Bush, Duo of 81-year-old women plan to see the world in 80 days, Tom Sizemore, actor known for "Saving Private Ryan" and "Heat," dies at 61, Alex Murdaugh trial: What to know about the double murder case. Of the nearly 800. This was a program that was right-sized and designed to fill a lot of those gaps, and then scaled in such a way as to have a significant impact on an economy of the size of the Tulsa metro.. Tulsa is seeking digital nomads to put their roots down here. Hopefully those who come across this post will have better luck. $10,000 (either via monthly stipends or lump sum if you purchase a home in Tulsa), Opportunity to meet like-minded individuals through the Tulsa Remote community. Do I still qualify? Sen and I didn't visit Tulsa right away. h._hjSettings={hjid:1812585,hjsv:6}; Tulsa Remote does not offer employment of any kind. This blog highlights my insights and experience with TR and the city for you to consider before you apply. We'd love to get you the information and resources you need to take the leap to move to Tulsa. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Tulsa Remote is a unique recruitment initiative aimed at attracting talented individuals to Tulsa. Nationally-recognized restaurants meet local Tulsa flair. Nervous about making the move? We know remote arrangements take planning. The conversation was short and easy. For more information, please see our Press J to jump to the feed. "Tulsa is most definitely on the come up, and the opportunity to build my company here alongside an incredible community of passionate individuals has been amazing,". In addition to the $10,000 grant, participants will receive a 36-month membership at a local co-working space, support in identifying housing, and regular community-building opportunities. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. The list wasnt topped by new remote hubs like Tulsa, but by Washington, DC, San Francisco, and Austin. They believe that Tulsa Remotes selection process, which intentionally seeks out talent that is needed but otherwise lacking in the city, is what ultimately drives its success. This major public-private partnership to develop the citys waterfront, the fact that theres a burgeoning art scene, I think Tulsa was positioned well, not just because of its size, but because of the assets and amenities that are here that people just didnt know about previously.. Gathering Place, Tulsa's 66-acre riverfront park, offers out-of-this-world play structures (plus bar and lounge space for those of us too big for the banana slide). Besides receiving much press coverage during its 2018 launch, Bolzle said Tulsa Remote has provided a significant return on investment for Tulsa. Ive never been to Tulsa and want to visit before I make the move. The Tulsa Remote team reviews each application. It was intriguing to see how Black entrepreneurs were building back up Tulsa, as a Black entrepreneur and founder myself, says Law, who was invited to be one of 842 members of Tulsa Remotes 2021 cohort. I got an email from Tulsa Remote about a week later notifying me that I am a semifinalist and am advancing to the next step with a video interview that happened within the same week. Nov 26-Semi-finalist interview real chill convo, I sold my community involvement I take part in and spoke about my job etc. Ask about their family and engage in the excitement about relocating to Tulsa! Thats the logic that leads EIGs models to estimate such a high payoff for Tulsa Remote. Some of Tulsa's most prominent updates are visible in the city's aesthetics and infrastructure: In the past 10 years, a mix of public and private dollars has helped build the sprawling $465. Since its founding in 2018, Tulsa Remote has brought nearly 1,300 remote workers to town, and a new study suggests that the investment is paying off. Throw in a low cost of living, and you'll have no trouble finding reasons to start your next chapter in Tulsa. It's not the first time cities and even states have offered cash to entice would-be residents. Tulsa has seen unparalleled investments to public space for a city of its size. Each grant is distributed over the course of a year to eligible remote workers or entrepreneurs living outside of Oklahoma. Did you visit Tulsa? Should I mention that or instead say that I am thinking about moving to Tulsa but not 100% yet. Initially, 100 slots were available, and the program administrators figured they might get 1,000 total applications. The George Kaiser Family Foundation created the Tulsa Remote program as a way to lure tech workers from around the country to Tulsa. Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Rideshare services such as Lyft and Uber, and delivery services such as Grubhub and DoorDash, are not considered full-time remote employment. , Prithwiraj Choudhury, a professor at Harvard Business School who. Yes. That's despite accepting under 5% of applicants last year, according to managing director Justin. Born in Rochester, and raised and educated in North Carolina, shes also lived in Atlanta, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Oakland, and Los Angeles. gtag('config', 'UA-115877007-1'); And by attracting remote workers, Tulsa could bring in new residents and income and even plant the seeds of its own knowledge sector. In 2019, Tulsa Remote participants ages ranged from 22 to 64. The city is also aiming to become one of the country's largest technology and business hubs. Last September, A Gathering Place came into fruition as an inclusive riverfront parkwith a childrens adventure playground, a skate park, restaurants and gathering spots. Are there evens or weekly/monthly meetings for the cohort? The list wasnt topped by new remote hubs like Tulsa, but by Washington, DC, San Francisco, and Austin. var message="Function Disabled! Tulsa Remote participants were more likely to say they intend to stay where they currently live than the candidates who were accepted but didnt end up moving. And they estimate every dollar spent on the program creates $13 in economic activity. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution.. Google AdSense How long did it take to find out they were interested, after applying? Thats especially true when the program involves attracting outsiders. First published on November 14, 2018 / 2:09 PM. For my interview, I tried to think of the top 4-5 things that were most interesting about me, and how I'd bring them to the table, so to speak. With community workshops, art showings, local fabrication spaces and unique shops, the opportunities to express yourself are endless. In creating Tulsa Remote, Stewart says he was inspired by Teach for America, a non-profit organization that deploys graduates from the countrys top universities to low income communities to teach for two years. I applied the day apps open and was notified yesterday I am semi finalist. You are not eligible for the program if youre in process of buying a home or renting an apartment. We've designed community building programming, events and meetups to help you engage with the organizations, local nonprofits and individuals that are working to make Tulsa the best it can be. Tulsa Remote also compares favorably to one of the other staples of local development: Cutting taxes to attract companies. Who is the ideal candidate for this program? I remember seeing programs like this a few years back and thought it would be an incredible life experience. Glassdoor has 1 Tulsa Remote reviews submitted anonymously by Tulsa Remote employees. Your a Midwesterner. Since 2019, Tulsa Remote has brought over 1,800 people to the city by offering them $10,000. In July, she and her husband bought a house. As Perry writes in his 2020 book Know Your Price, the success of local economic development programs requires bridge-building across communities within a city and the involvement of local residents in the planning process.