The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has opened applications for its 2026 Agricultural Workforce Development Program (AWDP). This statewide initiative funds internships that help farms, ranches, and agricultural businesses train the next generation of agricultural professionals. Through this program, CDA reimburses a portion of the cost to hire and mentor interns who gain hands-on experience in Colorado’s agricultural sector.
You can apply now through the CDA portal at co.accessgov.com.
What the Program Offers
The AWDP reimburses participating farms and businesses for up to 50 percent of actual internship costs, with a cap of $5,000 per intern. The reimbursement covers intern wages, employer payroll taxes, workers’ compensation insurance, and other related expenses.
Businesses can also claim up to 10 percent of total costs as fixed overhead for supervision, administrative support, or supplies.
Each internship must include at least 130 hours of educational, hands-on training and run no longer than one calendar year. Interns must:
- Be paid at least Colorado’s minimum wage
- Be at least 18 years old
- Work as employees, not contractors
- Not be related to the business owner or a former employee
Colorado farms, ranches, and agricultural businesses that operate within the state qualify to apply. The CDA gives priority to those in crop, livestock, dairy, greenhouse, nursery, or timber production. Each business can request funding for up to three internships per year.
Key Dates
- Application period: October 1 – October 31, 2025 (deadline: 5 p.m. MDT)
- Award notifications: Mid-December 2025
- Internship period: January 1 – December 31, 2026
- Informational webinar: October 8, 2025 at 11 a.m. MDT
All internships must take place after CDA approves the agreement.
You can access full details, eligibility requirements, and webinar information at ag.colorado.gov/awdp.
Why Colorado Farmers Should Apply
1. Train Future Agricultural Leaders
Colorado agriculture needs skilled workers who understand modern production systems. Hosting an intern lets you shape new professionals while growing your own workforce.
2. Reduce Labor Costs
Labor remains one of the highest expenses on farms. The AWDP helps you offset up to half of an intern’s wages, easing the financial burden while strengthening your team.
3. Strengthen Local Agriculture
By training interns, you help build a more resilient local workforce. More trained professionals in Colorado mean stronger rural communities and better retention of agricultural knowledge statewide.
4. Benefit Both Farm and Intern
Interns gain practical experience and mentorship that lead to long-term agricultural careers. Farms gain motivated, trainable workers who can contribute immediately and potentially stay on after the internship ends.
5. Use Public Funding to Support Growth
The AWDP gives farms and ranches a cost-effective way to expand capacity without taking on new debt or outside investors.
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm your eligibility.
You must operate a farm, ranch, or agricultural business in Colorado that complies with all labor, wage, and safety standards. Interns cannot replace existing employees.
Step 2: Decide how many interns you want to hire (up to 3).
Submit a separate application for each position through the CDA AccessGov portal.
Step 3: Prepare your budget.
Include wage estimates, payroll taxes, workers’ compensation costs, and overhead expenses. CDA may reimburse up to 10 percent for administrative or supervisory costs.
Step 4: Design a structured training plan.
Plan for at least 130 hours of hands-on learning. Assign a supervisor, outline learning goals, and provide a safe, educational work environment.
Step 5: Submit your application.
Apply at co.accessgov.com by October 31, 2025, 5 p.m. MDT. Late applications will not be accepted.
Step 6: Watch for notification.
CDA will review applications and issue award letters by mid-December 2025.
Step 7: Launch your internship.
Approved internships can begin on or after January 1, 2026. Keep accurate records of hours, wages, and training activities to ensure smooth reimbursement at the end of the program.
The Bottom Line
Colorado’s Agricultural Workforce Development Program gives farms and ranches the chance to hire motivated interns, train future agricultural leaders, and strengthen the state’s food system—all while receiving financial support.
Don’t miss the October 31, 2025, deadline. Visit ag.colorado.gov/awdp to review details and submit your application today.
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