Applications will be accepted through Feb. 10 for agricultural businesses interested in participating in an internship program for the 2023 growing season.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture conducts the Agricultural Workforce Development Program.

“By providing paid, hands-on internships in agriculture, we’re helping more young people gain access to education and experience that will help them decide if they want to pursue a career in agriculture,” said Colorado Agriculture Commissioner Kate Greenberg. “This program supports the development of future generations of farmers and ranchers and supports ag business owners in training the next generation. ”

The program provides financial incentives to Colorado farms, ranches and agricultural businesses to hire interns and provide training. Qualified businesses may be reimbursed for up to 50 percent of the cost of hiring an intern up to $5,000.

Since it began in 2018, the program has funded more than 75 internships at farms, ranches and agricultural businesses across the state — 25 in 2022 alone.

To apply, qualifying agricultural businesses must complete an online application found on the CDA website at https://ag.colorado.gov/awdp. A team will review and evaluate applications. Award notices will be sent out in late February.

Once businesses receiving funding are selected, CDA will publish a form for interns seeking internships so interested intern candidates can connect with them. Internship applications will open in the spring.

More information on the program is available on the website or by contacting Joanne Hernandez, a CDA grants specialist, at joanne.hernandez@state.co.us.