IWD Announces Funding Opportunity for 2024 Summer Youth Internship Program Grants

Iowa Workforce Development Communications
For Immediate Release
Date: January 24, 2024
Contact: Jesse Dougherty
Telephone: 515-725-5487
Email: communications@iwd.iowa.gov

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IWD Announces Funding Opportunity for 2024 Summer Youth Internship Program Grants

DES MOINES, IOWA – Iowa Workforce Development is announcing a new round of available funding to help jumpstart youth internship programs in high-demand fields this summer. Approximately $250,000 in state funding will be made available to support internships for Iowans between the ages of 14 and 24.

Applications are now open at iowagrants.gov and will be accepted through Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.

  • Visit this link for information on the funding opportunity and how to apply.
  • A webinar will be held for interested applicants on Monday, January 29 at 1:00 p.m. Click here to RSVP.


β€œYouth internships are often a great springboard for potential careers, and so I’m thrilled to see another funding opportunity open for this successful program,” said Beth Townsend, Executive Director of Iowa Workforce Development. β€œThe earlier we can get youth engaged in promising on-the-job experiences, the more likely they are to find a pathway here in Iowa.”

Eligible applicants for the Summer Youth Internship Grant include non-profits, educational institutions, employers, and community organizations. Priority funding will be given to programs providing internships to youth that are at risk of not graduating, from low-income households, or who face barriers to upward mobility in the labor market (such as being from communities underrepresented in the workforce). Applicants are also strongly encouraged to co-enroll Summer Youth Internship participants with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title I Youth Program in their local area.

Awarded funds can be used for:

  • Participant wages (gross wages)
  • Participant compensation (as a result of completing the program)
  • Training resources, program supplies, and materials
  • Program coordination
  • Administrative costs (limited to 10% of total award)

For a full list of funding requirements and how the funds can be used, visit this link for the notice of funding and other resources.

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