The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) is accepting applications from Colorado farms, ranches, and other agricultural businesses looking to hire interns in 2026. Through the Agricultural Workforce Development Program (AWDP), businesses may be reimbursed for up to 50 percent of the actual cost to employ an intern, up to $5,000, in exchange for providing a hands-on experience needed to begin a career in agriculture.
Colorado farms, ranches, and other agricultural businesses are eligible for this program. Preference is given to Colorado businesses engaged in the production of agricultural crops, livestock, dairy, timber, or greenhouse and nursery products. Businesses may apply for up to three internships per year.
The deadline to submit an application is Friday, October 31, 2025, at 5 pm. Applications will be evaluated by a team of reviewers, and award notices will be sent out in mid-December.
To answer questions about the program, application, and review process, CDA will hold an informational webinar on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 11:00 am MDT. Anyone interested in learning more can register for the webinar. The webinar will be recorded and posted on the program website.