The HBCU Innovation Internship is back + better than ever–learn more + apply now

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In early 2024, the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA), in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc., and Innovate Alabama, launched a 12-week innovation internship for HBCU students in Alabama to diversify the state’s tech workforce.

Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, EDPA has announced the return of the HBCU Innovation Internship this Fall. The expanded internship will offer students hands-on experience, professional development and valuable connections with both employers and peers.

Keep reading to learn more about this unique opportunity for students and employers of Alabama.

About the HBCU Innovation Scholarship

Since the inaugural HBCU Innovation Internship ended in April 2024, it has experienced tremendous growth. This Fall’s cohort will feature more students, more employers and more opportunities for participants.

Here’s a look at what the internship has accomplished since its debut:

• One intern has secured a full-time position through the internship
• 14 interns have been impacted so far
• 3 new employers have joined the initiative

“Participating as employers in the HBCU internship program, our hope is to demonstrate how you can bring ideas and dreams to life utilizing capital. Additionally, with these students coming from HBCUs, it feels all the more important, timely and impactful.”

Rae’Mah Henderson, Program Manager, TechStars

How it works

First, eight interns are selected from four participating HBCUs–Alabama A&M, Miles College, Tuskegee University and Shelton State Community College.

Then, those interns are interviewed and placed with an employer in Alabama. Employers range from startup accelerators to full-fledged companies, including:

• Analytical AI
• Alabama Business Intelligence Center
• Chambers County Innovation Center
• Techstars EnergyTech Accelerator
• Prosper HealthTech Accelerator (gener8tor)
• Innovation Depot
• HudsonAlpha AgTech Accelerator
• Immediate
• Decatur-Morgan County E-Center

Interns will gain valuable experience with their employers and also have the opportunity to connect with peers in their cohort to share insights and experiences.

Through the HBCU Innovation Internship, students gain:

• Hands-on experience in the fast-paced startup world
• Professional development
• Connections with mentors + peers
• College credit
• A $3,000 work stipend

Impacting + influencing Alabama students

To learn more about the HBCU Innovation Internship and its effect on local students, we sat down with Jesse Yankey– an Alabama A&M junior and participant in the inaugural cohort.

“The connections you build through this program are invaluable, and the exposure is something you won’t find easily elsewhere. It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and I can confidently say any student will love the experience.”

Jesse Yankey, Student, Alabama A&M

Currently, Jesse is interning with gener8tor, an employer he was connected with through the cohort.

“This internship expanded my understanding of job opportunities within the computer science field.

I was immersed in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, gaining hands-on experience with website management, event planning, and even a bit of photography. It also exposed me to real-world office dynamics, including attending meetings and networking.”

Jesse Yankey, Student, Alabama A&M

Help grow the HBCU Innovation Internship + apply now

The HBCU Innovation Internship is expanding quickly to give Alabama students career opportunities and valuable experience in the tech and startup field.

If you’re an employer interested in getting involved in the next round, contact cwilliams@edpa.org for more information.

Are you a student or know a student seeking a Spring internship? Applications for the Spring cohort are now open and close on November 15– apply now.

Interested in getting involved in this innovative + exciting opportunity for Alabama HBCU students? Apply for the Spring cohort by Nov. 15 or learn more about becoming an employer.

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