Because the people in the city were super welcoming everywhere we went. It inspired us to think of other ways to bring people into the equation, and remote work was an interesting venue.. We shouldnt underestimate how important the pure signaling alone is; thats certainly a big part of it, says Lettieri. The catch is that you have to work somewhere else. Tulsa, Oklahoma, will pay you $10,000 to move there. But there's a The remote workers who moved to Tulsa have a higher standard of living than they had before, theyre engaged in their new community, and most plan to stay. 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). Tulsa Remote will also give you money to visit before moving, so you can see the apartments in person when you visit. What kind of things did they ask? The highly selective program, which awards individuals $10,000 towards relocation, focuses on creating a supportive ecosystem. Today, Tulsa's quality of place is resonating with applicants to an innovative program called Tulsa Remote. This was our first time doing a road trip this long. 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. Were going to stay here for sure, she says. 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. Hi, 32-Levels. 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. Interesting that you say that. While monetary incentives help bring people to town, Lettieri and Fikri believe that other local amenities and support structures ultimately inspire them to stay, allowing the program to generate lasting value. (this is my favorite! Tulsa Remote is a case study in how remote work can shift economic development, and it paints a hopeful picture for smaller cities. The question is whether Tulsa can continue to attract remote workers when it has to compete with, say, Wichita, Kansas or Omaha, Nebraska. 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. The George Kaiser Family Foundation created the Tulsa Remote program as a way to lure tech workers from around the country to Tulsa. Nervous about making the move? The initiative resulted in getting than 10,000 applications from over 150 countries. First published on November 14, 2018 / 2:09 PM. Follow us for travel tips, photos of different destinations in the US and inspiration~, Dig for Crystals at the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, Oklahoma. Last year, while researching the Tulsa Massacre, Law came across an ad for a program called Tulsa Remote, which enticed remote workers and entrepreneurs to the mid-sized Oklahoman city with a $10,000 relocation stipend. Tulsa Remote provides resources to help finalists discover and secure suitable housing before they move to Tulsa, including a new housing portal. Leaving the Bay Area: Hundreds of remote workers bite on Tulsa's offer Its been almost a year since Sen and I moved to Tulsa from Los Angeles, and I am glad to report that we love it here! What Our Members Are Saying Glassdoor Even before the pandemic, the program was having great. Are there any age restrictions to apply for the Tulsa Remote program? ". We lived in LA for over twenty years and have many friends and family members there. Sen and I didn't visit Tulsa right away. That kind of thing. Question for people who did the Tulsa Remote program : r/tulsa - reddit Tulsa Remote also compares favorably to one of the other staples of local development: Cutting taxes to attract companies. "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,". It doesnt have much in the way of a technology sector, and it has a smaller share of residents with a college degree than the U.S. as a whole. And theyre encouraged to get to know the people in their neighborhood and become involved within their communities. !function(c,h,i,m,p){m=c.createElement(h),p=c.getElementsByTagName(h)[0],m.async=1,m.src=i,p.parentNode.insertBefore(m,p)}(document,"script","https://chimpstatic.com/mcjs-connected/js/users/e2a1c94371de8d9fbce37f174/c1afc46532954c025b953796f.js"); Tulsa has been really great, and we do plan to buy a house next year.. No. I am not going to lie; I was worried about safety because research says Tulsa is unsafe. Remote workers tend to be well paid; theyre in white collar digital and professional occupations, generally speaking, and those tend to come with pretty high salaries, explains Kenan Fikri, EIGs research director. The study also found that for every two household members brought to Tulsa through the program, one new local job was created. Fast Company & Inc 2023 Mansueto Ventures, LLC, Tulsa paid people $10k to move there and work remotely. Andre Perry, a researcher at Brookings who studies urban development and inequality, supports the basic idea of attracting knowledge workers but cautions that it doesnt always deliver. 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.. 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. The foundation offers applicants $10,000 to move to. We know remote arrangements take planning. 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. Throw in a low cost of living, and you'll have no trouble finding reasons to start your next chapter in Tulsa. I'm a travel blogger, and photographer, recently moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma from Los Angeles, California with my husband Sen, our cat Shadow, and dog Lumi. But LA is not bad in my personal experience, and I've lived there for over 20 years. The standard answer is that knowledge-sector jobs that can be done remotely are high-paying and tend to have spillovers to the local community at least when housing costs dont rise enough to cancel out those benefits. $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. Its a highly cost-effective intervention relative to other economic development tools, said Daniel Newman, an analyst at EIG who worked on the study. The program, explains Stewart, furthers the George Kaiser Family Foundations mandate of reversing the cycle of generational poverty in the local community. From tiki lounges to speakeasies and hole-in-the-wall neighborhood bars, there's no shortage of places to grab a drink or celebrate with friends or make new friends. Rent - $658 Tulsa vs. $2,248 San Diego, 2 BR Avg. Yes, I am from Los Angeles, where the crime rate is high too! 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. With festivals, races and celebrations happening throughout the year, you'll struggle to find a weekend with nothing to do. Has the arrival of remote workers benefitted the city as a whole? If the finalist has no previous experience with Tulsa, an in-person visit may be scheduled. Initially, 100 slots were available, and the program administrators figured they might get 1,000 total applications. Tulsa Remote is intended for individualswho reside outside of Oklahoma at the time of application. Ive never been to Tulsa and want to visit before I make the move. Food, housing, transport, healthcare, etc. Parking is plentiful (and widely free!). ", "I am loving Tulsa. We finally went in mid-March 2021 and spent six days in Tulsa to check out the city and to apartment hunt. We didn't want to take any of the large furniture to Tulsa since we thought it might just be a one-year thing. The best time to visit Tulsa would be Spring and Fall. So while I thought there would be more than one interview, it doesnt seem like it, unless visiting is mandatory with an in person interview happening at that time. (To its credit, GKFF has other programs focused on poverty alleviation, racial equity, and job creation in Tulsa.). The family sold their house in Madison, Wisconsin, and six months after being accepted into the program, they arrived in Tulsa. So we planned for a 7-day journey making multiple stops along the way like Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, Shiprock, New Mexico, etc. Press J to jump to the feed. Has anyone taken advantage of Tulsa's Remote worker program? Perry spoke with CBS News in a telephone interview Wednesday. Can Tulsa remain a draw for remote workers if other cities copy its model? So when the 29-year-old entrepreneur was deciding where to launch her video-based social network for anime and geek fandom, QuirkChat, she had a lot of options to consider. Along with the introduction of Tulsa Remote, 2018 has ushered in other community-related initiatives in Tulsa. Just be yourself, we are pretty nice around here despite what you might have heard. Besides receiving much press coverage during its 2018 launch, Bolzle said Tulsa Remote has provided a significant return on investment for Tulsa. Less like a job interview, more like a first date. It's not the first time cities and even states have offered cash to entice would-be residents. While we try to accept a wide variety of movers and shakers into our program, we, unfortunately, can't invite everyone. It takes roughly 13 minutes max to get anywhere in Tulsa; in any other city, that's the minimum time it takes to drive 0.6 miles. Tulsa Remote is not the only program of its kind the state of Vermont announced a much-publicized subsidy along the same lines in 2018 and its success will ensure that it isnt the last. Kinda sucks interviewing and being accepted without knowing where the heck you'll live. The Tulsa Remote program, however, is not necessarily the right program for all cities hoping to attract highly paid remote workers. . Tulsa Mayor G.T. Do you work remotely? This program could pay you $10,000 to do so - CNN Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Summer is hot and humid. The researchers estimate that one new full-time job was created in Tulsa for every two Remoters who moved there. Tulsa Remote is a case study in how remote work can shift economic development, and it paints a hopeful picture for smaller cities. All told, Tulsa Remote is estimated to have contributed $62 million in new labor income to the local economy in 2021. Either because we all are remote workers or moved away from our home towns, etc. 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. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution.. Its a grant of $10,000 over the span of a year plus some other perks. It was definitely fun to see all the sights but very troublesome with all of our stuff in the car. 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. Tulsa is not the only city that offers remote workers cash in exchange for taking up residence, but researchers warn not every city stands to enjoy the same economic benefits in return. Dont know much more about the process as of yet, but I know next step is at least one video interview. All the people in charge of the program are local restaurant group/coffee group owners, Well damn this would have been great information on the day of interview. The median family income was about 80 percent of the national average, according to the study. Also reason for wanting to move to Tulsa. And they estimate every dollar spent on the program creates $13 in economic activity. Brainstorm, network, or even whip up a passion project together collaboration is always highly encouraged here. I've visited Tulsa a couple times and I agree, you Tulsans are very welcoming. h.hj=h.hj||function(){(h.hj.q=h.hj.q||[]).push(arguments)}; 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. Yes. No. We are planning to live in Tulsa proper. Should I mention that or instead say that I am thinking about moving to Tulsa but not 100% yet. Work-from-anywhere as a public policy: 3 findings from the Tulsa Remote Sign up to receive program updates and announcements from the Tulsa Remote team so you're always in the know. The first step is to apply for Tulsa Remotehere. For Tulsa Remote members, that means individuals are working for a company located outside of Oklahoma. A program paid workers $10,000 to relocate to Tulsa. Rent - $658 Tulsa vs. $1,500 Chicago, 2 BR Avg. I had major cabin fever since we were cramped in our tiny apartment that we spent way too much for. Good luck and when it works out for you.Congratulations and welcome to Tulsa. Each grant is distributed over the course of a year to eligible remote workers or entrepreneurs living outside of Oklahoma. Glassdoor has 1 Tulsa Remote reviews submitted anonymously by Tulsa Remote employees. In my hometown in Wilkinsburg, [part of the Pittsburgh metro area], there were a lot of promises made that the recruitment of tech talent would impact other places besides the city [of Pittsburgh], he said in an interview. 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. When selected applicants arrive in Tulsa, they get a warm welcome. Thats especially true when the program involves attracting outsiders. Like others have mentioned, talk about community involvement, what youre passionate about and what you can contribute to the community. Were most proud of the fact that weve retained more than 90%, says Stewart. We've already driven back to LA for work and seen our families a few times during our first nine months. We even offer a. Tulsa is seeking digital nomads to put their roots down here. Tulsa Remote, a program that provides $10,000 grants to remote workers who relocate to Tulsa, OK, has seen a 36% uptick in applications since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) in March. If selected for the program, how soon can I move? Which means that in 2021 There is an estimated $13.77 boost in new local labor income for every dollar spent toward relocating a remote worker. Nationally-recognized restaurants meet local Tulsa flair. I was selected as a semifinalist for the Tulsa Remote program and my interview is next week. It was also wintertime, the height of the pandemic, and a lot of Asian hate news, so we decided to wait. Reversing Brain Drain: Moving Talent to Middle America If selected for the program, do I have to live in Tulsa? That just didnt happen. Details. Looking for a job? According to a report published by the. gtag('js', new Date()); With hundreds of acres of wilderness areas, urban parks and greenspaces, Tulsa offers countless opportunities to get outside, get some fresh air and explore. Tulsa Remote - Economic Innovation Group Rent - $658 Tulsa vs. $2,669 Boston, 2 BR Avg. The program requires selected participants to move within 12 months of being accepted and completing the required verification steps. 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. Funding is currently provided by the George Kaiser Family Foundation. You are 18+ years old. No. When Tulsa Remote first launched in the fall of 2018, Stewart says organizers were anticipating 15 to 20 applicants. As long as the program continues to have a positive impact on the community, we will continue it.. Getting to see more of the country is one of our goals for 2021 and beyond. Because of our experience here, we decided in late 2021 to apply for the State-approved Incubator Program at 36 Degree Northwith our companyEvolusenand got in (more on that in another post)! However, what really has made Tulsa "fantastic" for me, is how well . That just didnt happen. Nov 14-Notified of semi-finalist status, scheduled interview for Nov 26th via calendly. Claire Tomm decided to apply to Tulsa Remote after hearing about it from a friend whod participated. For one thing, the cities with the most remote work are the same big superstar cities that dominated the pre-pandemic economy. var message="Function Disabled! Is Tulsa Remote offering jobs to the people who apply? Space to run, play, climb and slide. 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. Jared Lindzon is a freelance journalist and public speaker born, raised and based in Toronto, Canada. , this one reporting which cities had the highest share of work done from home. Your a Midwesterner. They do ask about your salary, so dont let that catch you off guard. What types of incentives are program participants receiving? What are some interview tips? All Rights Reserved. What was your example? How Tulsa is Helping Remote Workers: An Interview with Dustin Curzon of 36 Degrees North Cobot The leading management software for coworking spaces worldwide, trusted by coworking spaces, office hubs, and flexible workspaces of all sizes to grow and manage their communities. Cookie Notice He said yes, I applied, and the rest was history. In my opinion, one of the biggest perks of Tulsa Remote is the community the team has built. No Right Clicks Bee Law has called many corners of the United States home. And, perhaps most importantly, how many remote workers want to move in the first place? While there are many housing options available downtown, participants are free to live anywhere within the Tulsa city limits, including purchasing or renting single-family homes. After I applied, I actually forgot about it, half thanks to the cocktails, half because I didn't think we would get in. Privacy Policy. So after some cocktails by Bartender Sen, I started browsing the internet, and I came upon the Tulsa Remote Program. Well, It happened during the second lockdown in Los Angeles in 2020. Absolutely. Benefits: $10,000 (either via monthly stipends or lump sum if you purchase a home in Tulsa) A free co-working space for three years Exclusive events in Tulsa I am moving to your city in the next couple weeks. Tulsa has seen unparalleled investments to public space for a city of its size. So I turned to Sen and asked if he was down to move to Tulsa, OK, with me if we got in. EIG released another study of remote work. I got an email asking for a background check and income verification about two weeks after. The Oklahoma city is the focal point of Tulsa Remote, a program offering a $10,000 grant and additional incentives to selected participants to move and work remotely from Tulsa for a year. The participants report no decrease in productivity since moving. Remote Work Program - Tulsa Remote It was not like that at all and lasted all of about 10 minutes. We've been here for almost nine months, and we've loved it so far! The program wants to attract "talented and energetic people" to Tulsa who care about making a difference in their local community . 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. "; function clickIE4(){ if (event.button==2){ alert(message); return false; } } function clickNS4(e){ if (document.layers||document.getElementById&&!document.all){ if (e.which==2||e.which==3){ alert(message); return false; } } } if (document.layers){ document.captureEvents(Event.MOUSEDOWN); document.onmousedown=clickNS4; } else if (document.all&&!document.getElementById){ document.onmousedown=clickIE4; } document.oncontextmenu=new Function("alert(message);return false") The so-called superstar cities are still winning, both for in-office jobs and even for work-from-home. Additionally, they must be working remotely full-time or self-employed. Read employee reviews and ratings on Glassdoor to decide if Tulsa Remote is right for you. I do think it had. I haven't heard anything bad about it yet other than it's tough to get accepted. Tulsa Remote Interview!! Any advice?? : r/tulsa - Reddit Nov 26-Semi-finalist interview real chill convo, I sold my community involvement I take part in and spoke about my job etc. Yes, the program involves cutting checks to mostly well-educated, well-paid knowledge workers. Amid these challenging times, were still safely welcoming new members to Tulsa. Those selected for the program must live within Tulsa city limits. The program brings remote workers and digital nomads to the community by providing $10,000 grants and numerous community-building opportunities. The 2020 edition of the Tulsa Remote program seeks to welcome over 200 applicants. I dont think people are going to make a permanent life decision, or even a medium term one, based on a relatively small financial incentive, says Lettieri. The program was expected to bring in around 1,000 applicants and hopefully bring 50 people to Tulsa. Copyright 2023 CBS Interactive Inc. All rights reserved. Tulsa also has a significantly lower cost of living than Los Angeles, so we can focus on our business Evolusenand our passion fortravel photography. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Since the programs launch, and especially since the start of the pandemic, Stewart says hes fielded calls from every corner of the country, and beyond, with inquiries related to replicating the program elsewhere. Since 2018, nearly 1,300 talented individuals have joined our ranks, found home in Tulsa, and are helping shape one of Americas greatest cities. But what makes Tulsa's program unique is its focus on remote workers. If selected for the program, do I have to live downtown? Thats the logic that leads EIGs models to estimate such a high payoff for Tulsa Remote. Podcast - Managing the Future of Work - Harvard Business School Funded by George Kaiser Family Foundation, Tulsa Remote has basic requirements. Bynum addresses attendees at an event tied to the Tulsa Remote program. Needless to say, I didnt get accepted. And if you're selected, you'll have to relocate to Tulsa within the calendar year. 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. Born in Rochester, and raised and educated in North Carolina, shes also lived in Atlanta, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Oakland, and Los Angeles. Our consideration for moving to Tulsa is 100% because of the Tulsa Remote Program! Aside from the $10,000 disbursed as a house down payment or over time Tulsa Remote members also get assistance with house hunting, access to co-working spaces and weekly social and . He adds Tulsa Remotes success is partially owed to the appeal of the city itself, which he describes as a hidden gem, as well as other redevelopment efforts that have been undertaken in recent years.