EQUITY IN INTERNSHIPS PROGRAM
Stipend Awards to Reduce Financial Barriers to Internships
The Equity in Internships Program (EQUIP) was launched in early 2021 to support racial equity and increase experiential learning opportunities for black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) students facing financial barriers to growing their career. In 2023 the program expanded to accept applications from BIPOC, first generation college, and women in STEM students. Students with these identities who are interested in building career skills to work in Maine’s growing economy are encouraged to apply.
Awardees will be enrolled in the Maine Career Catalyst Program as a part of their program acceptance and have access to all in-person and virtual events throughout Summer 2024. Awardees will be required to register and attend a minimum of five (5) program events. Events range from networking to professional skill development and panel discussions to Maine exploration social activities. Event choice is at the awardees discretion and based on schedule as well as developmental and career interests. This program is funded in partnership with FocusMaine.
Timeline:
Applications will open on March 13, 2024
Applications will close on April 10, 2024
Recipients will be announced on April 26, 2024
All stipends will be awarded in the amount of $1,500.
For full program information review our overview.
“[This stipend] meant that I could start off positively, I feel like it helped me get ahead with what I wanted to get done during my internship”
“Getting the stipend opened weekends for me. Before getting [it], I was planning to work more hours and possibly applying for a second job. The stipend allowed me to have a little of moving room, and in return, I was able to complete the summer program on time with little difficulty.”
“I was able to pay all my living expenses without having to worry about my family. This allowed me to focus on my professional goals in research.”
FAQS:
Can I still apply if I’m getting paid for my internship, co-op, or apprenticeship?
Yes. Applicants may be receiving alternate pay or stipends for their positions and will not disqualify them from consideration. We know that your summer income may need to cover a lot of areas and our goal is to support you to remove financial barriers to succeeding in your role.
Do I have to be from Maine or go to a Maine school to apply?
No. Applicants do not need to be a student at a Maine-based university or a Maine resident to qualify. Any applicant must only be working for a Maine-based company this summer in an internship, apprenticeship, or co-op position.
I’m from Maine but I’m working out of state this summer. Can I apply?
No. All applicants must be working for a Maine employer. Positions can be in-person, virtual, or hybrid.
When will I receive my stipend?
Stipends will be awarded no later than July 1st following confirmation of your position acceptance and the successful start of your position at your employer.
What can I use my stipend for?
Financial barriers come in a lot of different shapes and sizes. Our goal is to help you remove what stands in your way. Housing and transportation have been the top two uses of the stipend funds however food, technological support/access, and tuition have also been listed as uses for the funds.
Are you interested in helping fund this important initiative? Contact Director of Workforce Partnerships, Kate Howell.