In Arkansas, plan to attract tech workers with bitcoin payouts

The Northwest Arkansas Council, a nonprofit organization, will pay remote-working technical professionals who decide to relocate to the region $10,000 in Bitcoin, according to local outlet KNWA.

In addition to the cryptocurrency, each recipient will also be gifted a mountain or recreational bicycle.

“This expanded offer — bike and Bitcoin — not only reflects the growing trend of using cryptocurrency as a means of payment, but also helps increase the flow of talented professionals, which is advantageous for employers, startups, cities, local businesses and the region as a whole,” said Nelson Pico, president and CEO of the Council.

The Council includes leaders of region-based companies, including Walmart, J.B. Hunt Transport Services and others.

The organization launched an incentive program in winter 2020, but it was only in 2022 that digital gold was included in the offering.

The initiative is funded by the Walton Family Foundation, focused on improving education and protecting water resources. The entity was created by Walmart founders Helen and Sam Walton.

As part of the talent-attraction program, the Council collaborates with the University of Arkansas’ Center for Advanced Blockchain Experience. Its staff are responsible for the technical expertise and the technological aspects of the project.

Earlier, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said he intended to give businesses the option to use cryptocurrencies to pay government fees.

Back in November 2021, it was reported that the newly elected mayor of New York, Eric Adams was planning to receive his first three salaries in Bitcoin after taking office.

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