LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- As the COVID-19 pandemic pushes people from the big cities to less populated parts of the country, Indiana is looking to capitalize on the changes by offering incentives to live in the state.
According to a report by Fox 59, an influx of residents could serve to fill out the state's workforce, add to the tax base and diversify Indiana's population.
"Which is a good thing and one that we are striving for," said Indiana Chamber of Commerce President Kevin Brinegar. "And it enhances the quality of life bringing people from different parts of the country with different perspectives and allows our businesses to grow."
Though money is tight, a recruiting investment could help the state overcome its financial strain due to the pandemic.
The city of Indianapolis has a head start. The Lilly Endowment just gave $2.8 million for talent attraction and image marketing initiatives in the circle city.
"When we do get through this pandemic, and it will happen, we need to rebuild and this is a good key step in making that happen," said Joe Pellman, the executive director of regional image marketing for Indy Chamber of Commerce.
The chamber did a survey across the nation.
"What we found in that survey was it's not that we had a bad perception, it's not that we had a good one, in many cases we didn't have one," explained Pellman.
So with the $2.8 million, the chamber hopes to create online platforms designed to change that. They want to streamline Indianapolis for anyone who may be typing the city in their search engine.
Its website said, "This initiative will create the LifeInIndy.com lifestyle blog, as well as a regional image marketing library of video content, photography, and other creative assets. These tow platforms will outline neighborhoods, educational options, career opportunities, arts and culture, entertainment options and other aspects that comprise Indy's quality of life."
Some areas have taken it even further -- with cash prizes of up to $10,000 to relocate to places like Tulsa, Oklahoma.
"We think that those types of things should be looked at," said Brinegar. "We don't have one specific proposal as of yet."
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders are working with state lawmakers to finalize a bill on this soon.
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