Operation Intern
Operation Intern from the North Dakota Department of Commerce funds internships and apprenticeships in key industries to advance student skills and strengthen the state's workforce.
Funder: North Dakota Department of Commerce
Due Dates: Rolling (waitlist in effect; applications reviewed as received)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per intern (1:1 match); max $25,000 per funding round, $50,000 per biennium per employer; up to 5 interns per round.
Summary: Supports North Dakota employers in key industries to create internships, apprenticeships, and work experience positions for students, strengthening the state’s workforce pipeline.
Key Information: All 2026 funds have been allocated; new applicants will be placed on a waitlist for possible reallocation.
Description
Operation Intern is a workforce development grant program managed by the North Dakota Department of Commerce. Its goal is to increase the number of internships, apprenticeships, and work experience positions in North Dakota’s targeted industries, including energy, advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture, tourism, technology-based businesses, and autonomous systems. The program provides matching funds to employers to help cover intern compensation and related costs, fostering connections between students and businesses while addressing the state's workforce needs.
