The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has opened applications for its Agricultural Workforce Development Program (AWDP), offering grant funding to support the hiring of interns by farms, ranches, and agricultural businesses in 2026. The program allows eligible businesses to be reimbursed for up to 50 percent of the actual cost to employ an intern, with a maximum reimbursement of $5,000 per intern.
Amanda Laban, Markets Division Director at CDA, commented on the initiative: “Year after year, we see the impact of developing the next generation of Colorado’s agricultural workforce. Through hands-on learning, interns gain necessary skills and experience, in an unparalleled work environment, while ag business leaders share specialized knowledge and operational skills, simultaneously honing their management acumen. Interns walk away with either a spark ignited for working in agriculture, or knowledge that an agricultural career isn’t for them. That knowledge is invaluable. The growth and expansion of the program into new ag industries demonstrates both the need and value of the AWDP program; we will continue striving and adapting to meet the needs of Colorado’s agricultural industries.”
Since its inception in 2018, AWDP has provided more than $895,000 in funding for 244 internships at 189 businesses throughout Colorado. The program is part of CDA’s broader strategic plan focused on supporting people and communities within agriculture.
Preference for grants will be given to businesses involved in producing crops, livestock, dairy products, timber, or greenhouse and nursery goods. Each business can apply for up to three internships annually.
Applications are being accepted from October 1 until October 31 at 5 p.m., with decisions expected by mid-December. Interested applicants must submit their materials through the online portal available at ag.colorado.gov/awdp.
To assist potential applicants with questions about the process or requirements, CDA will host a webinar on October 8 at 11:00 a.m. MDT. Registration details are available on the program website; a recording will also be posted online after the event.
The AWDP supports CDA’s goal to expand internship opportunities and professional development pathways for aspiring farmers and ranchers as outlined in its Strategic Plan.
