Best and Brightest Management Internship and Fellowship Program
Best and Brightest Management Internship and Fellowship Program funds students' paid local government work in Colorado to develop public service leaders and help communities meet administrative needs.
Funder: Department of Local Affairs
Due Dates: February 1, 2027 (Host mentoring plans) | March 1, 2027 (Fellow applications) | Rolling (High school and undergraduate internships)
Funding Amounts: Two-year fellowship: minimum salary and benefits of $57,000 in year one and $63,000 in year two, plus $3,000 per completed year
Summary: Paid Colorado local government internships and graduate fellowships develop public service leaders while helping communities meet administrative needs.
Key Information: Fellows must be Colorado residents, at least 18, enrolled in a partner graduate program, and commit to full-time, in-person work for two years.
Description
The Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) partners with Colorado counties, municipalities, and universities to connect students with practical local government work. Paid summer or semester internships introduce high school seniors and undergraduates to public administration through specific community tasks. Graduate fellowships combine two years of public sector experience with master's studies, preparing future local government managers, planners, and economic and community development directors.
The program particularly supports small and rural jurisdictions seeking cost-effective administrative staffing and greater capacity to address current needs and plan for the future. Inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility guide its approach to developing public service leaders who reflect the communities they serve.
