The Colorado Department of Agriculture is accepting applications from now through Oct. 31 for its 2026 Agricultural Workforce Development Program, according to a recent press release.

The program helps farms, ranches and other agricultural businesses hire interns by reimbursing up to 50% of their employment costs, or up to $5,000 per intern.

The program aims to give aspiring agricultural professionals hands-on experience while supporting employers in training the next generation of workers. Since launching in 2018, AWDP has funded 244 internships at 189 businesses statewide.

“Year after year, we see the impact of developing the next generation of Colorado’s agricultural workforce,” Markets Division Director Amanda Laban said in the release. “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.”

Eligible Colorado agricultural businesses can apply for up to three internships. Applications opened Oct. 1 and are open through October 31 at 5 p.m. Award notices will be sent out in mid-December.

More details and the application link are available at ag.colorado.gov/awdp.