Got Questions? We've got answers

What is Greater ROC Remote? 

Greater ROC Remote is an initiative of Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, funded by private dollars through ROC2025. It is a relocation incentive program for the best and brightest remote workers from across the United States. The doers. The creators. The game changers. The explorers. Greater Rochester, NY is the nation's 5th ranked city for remote workers, a top-ranked metro for future growth, home to a top-20 quality of life and the country's #2 best wine region. You may qualify for more than $10k in grants and incentives!

How are applicants selected?

All applications are reviewed and those deemed to be the best match for our program, are contacted to schedule a video interview.

What are the minimum qualifications to apply for this program? 

Qualified candidates must reside 300+ miles from downtown Rochester or any state other than New York, have a fully remote job and be 18 years of age or older.

What other incentives are program participants receiving? 

In addition to the $10,000 incentive provided by Greater ROC Remote, homebuyers are eligible to apply for additional grants up to $9,000. Program participants will also be included in special events and opportunities designed to connect, create a sense of community and belonging, and establish a local network.

Can couples and/or families apply?

While multiple family members are welcome toapply, only one award will be granted per household.

I am recent college graduate in the Greater Rochester area. May I apply?

While College students with a permanent address more than 300+ miles away or in another state who also meet the criteria above, are welcome to apply, there are additional regional programs that are targeted towards college students. We encourage you to explore https://www.campusroc.org/ and https://www.monroecounty.gov/planning-retain.

Can I apply if I’m not a US citizen?

If you are a permanent resident with a green card and you meet all the other qualifications, you may apply. 

If selected for the program, do I have to live downtown?

No. Program participants are free to live anywhere in the Greater Rochester region, as defined by our 9 counties. Those who choose to purchase a home in the city of Rochester, may qualify for an additional incentive.

I have never been to Rochester.  Do you offer visits to the Region?

Once interviewed, qualified applicants will be invited to visit the region to get to know us better.  We will reimburse travel expenses up to $500 for an individual and $750 for two or more people.  Additional details can be found in our terms and conditions. In the meantime, we encourage interested applicants to explore www.visitrochester.com.

If selected for the program, how soon can I move?

While program applications are accepted on a rolling basis, offers to relocate are made on a bi-annual basis in January and July of each calendar year.  Program participants will be given a 6-month window during which time they are required to move.

Does ROC Remote help me find housing?

Greater ROC Remote has a number of resources to help you explore our region and find a great place to live that suits your lifestyle. We partner with a number of local realtors to help you with the transition. Please see our list here. See our Housing page for more information.

Why was Greater ROC Remote created?

Greater ROC Remote was created with the support of ROC2025 and the Rochester Industries Educational Fund and other partners to enhance our existing workforce by bringing in new diverse, talented, driven individuals to our region for collaboration, networking, and community building.  This is one program that is part of a broader regional talent strategy focusing on attracting world class workers, retaining the great talent we already have in our region, and connecting incumbent workers to existing opportunities.

Does your program provide job search support for family members?

Yes! We would love to help your family members find employment in our Greater Rochester region.

What are the terms and conditions of the program?

The detailed terms and conditions can be found here.

Pictures provided courtesy of the City of Rochester.