I’m assuming you meant the Choose Topeka relocation assistance program, given your mention of “chose Topeka” and the context of relocation. This program is designed to attract talent to Topeka and Shawnee County, Kansas, by offering financial incentives to professionals who move there for work or as remote workers. Below, I’ll provide a concise overview of the program based on the latest information available, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply. If you have a specific question about the program (e.g., eligibility for a certain job, application process, or recent updates), let me know, and I’ll tailor the response further!
Overview of the Choose Topeka Relocation Assistance Program
The Choose Topeka initiative, launched in 2019 by GO Topeka and the Greater Topeka Partnership, aims to boost the local economy by incentivizing skilled professionals to relocate to Topeka and Shawnee County. It partners with local employers and is funded through a combination of employer contributions and a countywide half-cent sales tax managed by the Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO). The program has gained attention for offering cash incentives to both on-site and remote workers, with a recent focus on groups like Latino immigrants, veterans, and Washburn University graduates.
Key Features and Incentives
- Incentive Amounts (as of the latest updates in 2023):
- Up to $15,000 for purchasing or rehabilitating a home in Shawnee County (primary residence).
- Up to $10,000 for renting a home or apartment in the first year.
- Up to $15,000 for home purchases or childcare-related expenses for in-person workers at local companies.
- Up to $5,000 for veterans or “boomerang” residents (former Topeka residents returning).
- Funding Structure:
- Employers initially fund the incentive (between $2,500 and $15,000).
- After one year, GO Topeka/JEDO reimburses 50% of the incentive to the employer, provided the employee remains in Topeka and meets program requirements.
- Performance-Based: Incentives are disbursed after the employee has lived in Shawnee County for at least one year and met all eligibility criteria. Funds can be used for moving expenses, home purchases, or childcare.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility varies slightly depending on whether you’re an on-site worker, remote worker, veteran, or Washburn University graduate. General requirements include:
- Must be eligible to work in the U.S. (undocumented immigrants are not eligible, and Topeka is not a sanctuary city).
- Job Offer: For on-site workers, you need a full-time job offer from a participating Shawnee County employer with a minimum annual salary of $50,000.
- Residency: Must purchase or rent a primary residence in Shawnee County within one year of moving or hire date.
- Remote Workers: Must work full-time for a company outside Shawnee County and provide proof of remote work authorization.
- Additional Groups:
- Washburn University/Washburn Tech graduates (Class of 2023 and later) qualify for incentives if hired by a participating employer.
- Veterans and boomerang residents are eligible for a $5,000 incentive.
- Other Requirements:
- Complete a Choose Topeka survey after one year.
- Participate in a Choose Topeka Immersion program (details not specified but likely involves community engagement).
- For self-employed individuals, applications are reviewed with verified supporting documentation.
Application Process
- Check Employer Participation: Contact your employer to confirm they participate in the Choose Topeka program. For remote workers, verify your remote work status.
- Submit Application: Apply online at ChooseTopeka.com. Include:
- Personal information (email, current city of residence).
- Required documents (e.g., CV, proof of employment, or remote work authorization).
- Employer Notification: Employers must notify GO Topeka of their intent to offer the incentive and receive confirmation.
- Review and Approval: Applications are reviewed by a committee. Remote workers may need to schedule an interview with the JEDO review committee.
- Post-Move Requirements: After moving, provide proof of residency (e.g., lease or home purchase documents) and remain in Shawnee County for at least one year to receive the incentive.
Program Impact and Updates
- Success Metrics:
- Since 2019, the program has attracted around 100 individuals/families, with an average salary of $89,000 (19% above the national average).
- About 66% of participants purchased homes, and 95% still reside in Topeka, generating a $3.9 million economic impact in the first year.
- In 2020-2022, 99 individuals relocated, including 23 remote workers.
- Recent Expansions (as of June 2023):
- Incentives now cover childcare costs for in-person workers.
- Added support for Washburn graduates, veterans, and boomerang residents.
- Increased focus on attracting Latino immigrants, leveraging Topeka’s established Spanish-speaking community (16.5% of the population is Hispanic or Latino).
- Criticism:
- A 2022 Kansas Policy Institute report argued the program’s impact is limited, noting Shawnee County lost 1,182 residents to net domestic migration between 2019 and 2021, far outpacing the 70 workers attracted. The program’s $900,000 cost (2019-2021) was questioned for its effectiveness.
- Some argue relocation subsidies favor wealthier newcomers and could contribute to issues like gentrification, though this is less documented in Topeka compared to larger cities.
Why Choose Topeka?
Topeka offers a low cost of living, a vibrant community, and a growing economy with employers like Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Advisors Excel, and Evergy. The city boasts cultural attractions (e.g., Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, NOTO Arts District), affordable housing, and community events like Fiesta Topeka. Its Spanish-speaking community and dual-language education programs make it particularly appealing for Latino immigrants.
Next Steps
If you’re interested in applying or learning more:
- Visit ChooseTopeka.com for detailed guidelines, FAQs, and the application portal.
- Contact your employer to confirm participation or reach out to GO Topeka for remote worker inquiries.
- If you’re a Washburn student/graduate, veteran, or boomerang resident, check specific eligibility on the website.
Clarifications Needed
- Your Intent: Are you asking about applying for the program, checking eligibility for a specific situation (e.g., remote work, veteran status), or seeking updates on the program’s status in 2025?
- Real-Time Info: I can search X or the web for recent posts or news about Choose Topeka (e.g., new funding, participant stories) if you want the latest updates.
- Other Needs: If you meant something else by “chose Topeka” (e.g., a different program or context), please clarify!
Let me know what you’re aiming for, and I’ll zero in on the details you need!
