The Best and Brightest Management Internship and Fellowship Program, administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), connects local governments, students, and universities to foster the development of future leaders in public service. The program offers paid internships for high school and undergraduate students, as well as two-year fellowships for graduate students pursuing degrees in public administration or public policy at partner universities in Colorado. It aims to increase administrative capacity in rural areas, address local government needs, and prepare students for leadership roles in local government management and community development.

The program serves several objectives, including inspiring high school students to consider public service careers, providing undergraduate students with real-world local government experience, and supporting graduate students in completing their degrees while gaining practical knowledge. It also aims to develop future managers, planners, and community development professionals and to provide cost-effective administrative solutions for smaller or rural jurisdictions. Inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility are central values of the program, ensuring that future leaders reflect the communities they serve.

High school seniors and undergraduate students can participate in internships lasting up to 12 or 16 weeks, respectively. Graduate fellows are enrolled MPA or MPPA students at institutions such as Adams State University, Colorado State University, and the University of Colorado Denver. Fellows must commit to a two-year placement, beginning annually on July 1. Local governments interested in hosting fellows or interns are responsible for developing work plans, mentorship opportunities, and community profiles.

The application process requires prospective fellows to contact their academic program directors, confirm their enrollment and standing, and submit a resume, cover letter, and application to the program manager by March 1. Internships for high school and undergraduate students are available on an ongoing basis, with local governments seeking out candidates as needed. Local jurisdictions interested in hosting must coordinate with their Regional Managers and submit mentoring plans and job descriptions by February 1.

Evaluation of applicants includes confirmation of academic standing and university recommendations. The program also requires participating local governments to create robust mentorship opportunities and tailored work plans. Successful applicants will gain practical experience working on various projects in local government departments, such as natural resources, human resources, and community development, and may present their work to local governing bodies.

Key dates include February 1 for local government participation materials and March 1 for fellowship applications. Graduate fellow placements begin July 1. The program manager, Randi Snead, is the primary contact for additional questions about the application process, while regional managers serve as resources for local governments interested in hosting participants.

Testimonials from alumni highlight the program's impact on career development and its value to both participants and hosting jurisdictions. Many graduates credit the program with providing unique opportunities to gain practical skills, mentorship, and connections within the Colorado local government community.