Internship Program Creates Pipeline of Young Professionals for Local Businesses

Local businesses are taking advantage of the Jamestown/Stutsman Development Corporation’s (JSDC) Internship Reimbursement Program (IRP) to develop a pipeline of skilled student interns who can transition into full-time employees. 

In addition to being provided with a steady stream of workforce recruits, business owners may also receive up to $3,500 to assist with payroll costs since the program dictates that interns are paid at least $15 per hour.

“As a business firmly rooted in providing professional services for the people and community around us, we have always felt it was important to work with the entities and organizations trying to be a part of the growing local economy,” said Jennifer B. Bollingberg, a CPA with Schauer & Associates, P.C. “We have had a history of working with local students to help them understand the accounting industry. The internship program, in general, has reaped the benefits of working towards long-term staff retention as well, which is highly desired in the accounting industry.”

Sustaining Economic Growth

Launched in 2021, the IRP adheres to specific guidelines covering everything from the student application process to selecting eligible employers for reimbursements, including:

• Employers may be eligible for up to $3,500 in reimbursement, or half the payroll cost. For example, if the projected cost for the employers is $8,000, they would be eligible for up to $3,500. If the projected cost for the employer is $4,000, they would be eligible for $2,000
• JSDC will meet quarterly to award eligible employers
• JSDC will select eligible employers for reimbursement after the deadlines. Specific dollar amounts will be determined for each application selected at that time
• The employer and internship position must be located in Stutsman County
• Interns must be juniors, seniors, or within two years of completing their program at any university or college
• Employers must pay the intern at least $15 per hour
• Employers must apply before the intern begins work
• Employers cannot receive reimbursement for the same intern for more than one round of funding
• The internship does not have to be for academic credit, but it is encouraged

“It creates pathways for students to engage with the local community and enter the regional workforce. This initiative supports our broader efforts to sustain economic growth in Jamestown and Stutsman County by mitigating workforce shortages through innovative and relevant programs,” said JSDC operations coordinator Jamie Czapiewski.

A Resilient Future

In addition to the hands-on experience boosting their resumes, the JSDC hopes that student interns will entertain the idea of putting down roots in the region upon graduation. 
“Young professionals bring vitality to the community by supporting businesses, filling critical job roles, and engaging in civic and cultural activities,” said Czapiewski. “Their presence helps counter workforce shortages and enhances the region's reputation, making Jamestown more attractive to future residents, businesses, and investors. By encouraging students to put down roots, Jamestown secures a more prosperous and resilient future.”

“To provide the support and opportunity for the local student community to come to the understanding that they can have an occupation that is sustainable, well compensated, and fulfilling with the lifestyle of a more rural area is great for our business community,” added Bollingberg.

To be considered for the program, interested businesses can contact the office at 701-252-6861 or email info@growingjamestown.com.