Grant Opportunity: Operation Intern

Funding Organization: North Dakota Department of Commerce

Contact Information: Kerri Kraft, Work-based Learning Program Coordinator, 701-328-7263, opintern@nd.gov

Program Description: Operation Intern is a grant program designed to expand the number of internships, work experience, and apprenticeship positions with North Dakota employers. The program focuses on creating new internships and apprenticeships in targeted industries such as energy, advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture, tourism, technology-based businesses, and healthcare. North Dakota businesses can receive up to $4,000 in matching funds for each internship/apprenticeship, which can be used for wages, tools and equipment, essential training, or tuition reimbursement. The funding is a one-to-one match.

Eligibility: The program is open to private sector businesses in the targeted industries mentioned above. Government entities and most non-profits are not eligible, except for those in the tourism and healthcare industry. Internship positions should be related to the student's field of study or career goals, and the intern's work must be performed in North Dakota. Employers must select students who are enrolled in a North Dakota college or university, high school juniors or seniors, or enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program.

Award Details: The maximum amount of Operation Intern funds an employer can receive is $20,000 per funding round or $40,000 per biennium. Employers are limited to a maximum of 5 interns per funding round. The first funding round was from May 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and the second round will be from May 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. Funding can be requested monthly or at the end of the internship, and a one-to-one match or more of compensation to the student is required.

Application Process: All applications must be submitted through the portal. Applications will be reviewed in the order received, and eligibility will be based on qualifying industry and internship criteria. Once the funding for a specific year is fully obligated, all remaining applicants will be notified of the funding window closure. A signed Letter of Agreement and Student Application form must be returned within two weeks of being notified of the award. For any questions or assistance, contact Kerri Kraft, Work-based Learning Program Coordinator, at 701-328-7263 or opintern@nd.gov.