Colorado offers grant to help agricultural businesses hire interns

The Colorado Department of Agriculture announced a grant to help agricultural employers offset the cost of employing interns in 2027. The Agricultural Workforce Development Program grant provides up to 50% reimbursement to Colorado-based farms, ranches and other agricultural businesses to employ an intern, up to $5,000. Businesses can apply for up to three internships per year. 

Eligible internships must provide at least 130 hours of hands-on experience designed to prepare participants for agricultural careers. Funding can help cover wages, workers’ compensation insurance and other qualifying employment costs.  

Preference is given to Colorado businesses engaged in the crop production, livestock, dairy, timber or greenhouse and nursery operations. 

Applications are due Nov. 2, 2026, by 5 p.m. Approved internships can occur between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2027.