Tulsa Offered Workers $10,000 to Relocate—Unlocking an $878 Million Talent Surge

(SeaPRwire) –   Good morning!

Seven years after Tulsa Remote began offering workers $10,000 to relocate to their Oklahoma city, the initiative has become a prime example of how relocation incentives can boost a local economy and broaden the talent pool available to employers. Over 4,000 workers have moved, contributing an estimated $878 million in economic impact.

This success has propelled Tulsa into its next phase: assisting employers in accessing global talent. Since its launch in 2022, the Tulsa Visa Network has helped nearly 100 individuals from 34 countries obtain visas, presenting a practical solution at a time when high H-1B visa fees and a more complex immigration landscape are prompting many companies to reconsider their international recruitment strategies.

Stan Khrapak, who oversees the Tulsa Visa Network, reports consistent demand this year from both individuals seeking visa assistance and small to midsize businesses navigating an increasingly intricate system. He notes that approximately half of those the program has aided are in STEM fields, although the network also supports hiring in areas such as finance and accounting.

Justin Harlan, managing director of the parent program Experience Tulsa, explains that Tulsa Remote has attracted professionals whose remote work strengthens the community without displacing local residents, and that the Visa Network operates on the same principle.

“Highly skilled individuals are coming in for roles that companies often struggle to fill locally, making it difficult to argue that this isn’t adding value to the community,” Harlan stated.

Harlan further emphasizes that the broader takeaway for HR leaders is that Tulsa’s approach extends beyond mere financial incentives. It involves cultivating an employee experience that encourages people to choose a location, remain there, and establish a life, he added.

The Experience Tulsa program has expanded its offerings beyond the initial $10,000 incentive and visa support. Participants now receive a $200 monthly stipend for health and wellness, access to a complimentary coworking space, and a remote-work certification course developed in collaboration with NYU.

The organization also organizes community-building events, including movie nights and dance lessons. Harlan suggests that this is an area where many employers still fall short. Companies, particularly those with hybrid or remote workforces or those aiming to attract international talent, need to thoughtfully consider how employees experience life outside of work, he advised.

“Often, HR departments offer superficial support or implement the quick and easy solutions we’re accustomed to,” Harlan commented. “However, when companies genuinely go above and beyond, I believe it’s recognized and can significantly enhance an individual’s quality of life.”

Kristin Stoller
Editorial Director, Live Media
kristin.stoller@.com