Exploring Opportunities with the Iowa Student Internship Program

Through the years, much work has been done to continue to retain educated workers in Iowa. In 2021, that goal is as important as ever, and so the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) will continue to offer the Iowa Student Internship Program, providing grants to small and medium-sized companies in targeted industries such as bioscience, advanced manufacturing or information technology. Internships can be in any area, with an opportunity to support a company’s international export efforts should they qualify as an export intern.

Through the internship, Iowa students will gain experience that can transfer to a career in Greater Des Moines (DSM) and the state, while helping local companies train and develop Iowa’s future workforce.

Qualifying Businesses + How to Apply

To become eligible for the Iowa Student Internship Program, businesses must have 500 or fewer employees (with a majority employed within Iowa) and must pay at least twice the minimum hourly wage (a minimum of $14.50/hour). For every two dollars of wages earned, one dollar will be paid by the employer and one through the program. A maximum of three internships is allowed per fiscal year, with a maximum reimbursement of $3,100 per intern.

Employers must also ensure that interns are within one or two years of graduation from college and are an Iowa student or previously graduated from an Iowa high school. Internships must be for the summer (at least 8 weeks of 30 hours per week) or semester (14 weeks of at least 10 hours per week).

Businesses and students interested in participating in the Iowa Student Internship Program can apply here. The FY 2021 deadline is Friday, April 30, or when funds are exhausted.

Iowa Student Internship Benefits

In the past, participating employers have benefited from the Iowa Student Internship Program in many ways. From developing future employees to increased productivity, interns have a valuable place in the workforce. Internships also give back to the community, encouraging interns to stay in the state even after their schooling is complete. Pratum, Inc. applied for the Iowa Student Internship Program in FY 2020. The internship resulted in a hiring at the end of the program, continuing the development of a talented employee. By recognizing and retaining talented interns, creating opportunities for them to thrive and grow in paid positions, we’re better able to innovate and continue to be a productive state.

Whether you’re considering employing an intern for the first time or already have in the past, the Iowa Student Internship Program can support your business through the 2021 Iowa Student Internship Program.

For more information, contact internships@iowaeda.com or apply for the 2021 program.

Greater Des Moines (DSM) has one of the best business climates in the country. The region is nationally recognized for having a talented and educated workforce, a cost of doing business 17 percent below the national average, a low cost of living and an exceptional quality of life.