$5,000 Employer Grant Supports Summer 2026 Internship Opportunities in Crawford County
Crawford County, OH — The Crawford Partnership, in collaboration with the Community Foundation for Crawford County, has announced the return of the Workforce Ready Intern Program, an initiative designed to strengthen the local talent pipeline while supporting Crawford County employers.
The program will provide reimbursement grants to two Crawford County businesses offering paid summer internships in 2026. Each selected employer may receive up to $5,000 in wage reimbursement to offset the cost of hiring and training interns.
The initiative is intended to encourage meaningful, hands-on work experiences for students and young adults while helping employers invest in emerging talent. Eligible interns include Crawford County residents between the ages of 18 and 22, such as recent high school graduates, vocational school graduates, and college students. Participating interns must be employed in entry-level roles and hired as W-2 employees, gaining practical experience that mirrors real workplace responsibilities.
To qualify for reimbursement, employers must ensure interns complete a minimum of 120 hours of paid work at no less than $13 per hour. Reimbursement will be issued upon submission of required documentation, including payroll records or timesheets verifying hours worked, wages paid, and applicable payroll tax withholdings.
The internship period must take place between May 1 and September 30, 2026. Employers interested in participating must submit their application by May 1, 2026, and selected recipients will be notified by May 8, 2026. Final reimbursement documentation must be submitted no later than October 31, 2026.
“This program creates a direct connection between Crawford County employers and the next generation of workforce talent,” said Makenna Laser, Executive Director at Crawford Partnership. “It’s an opportunity to reduce hiring costs while giving young talent meaningful, career-shaping experience right here in Crawford County.”
Eligible employers include private businesses, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and local government entities located in Crawford County with a non-residential business address, unless otherwise approved by the Crawford Partnership.
Interested employers should submit the following information via email: company name and address, internship timeline, hourly wage, position description, and any additional relevant details or requirements. Applications should be sent to Nancy Clutter at Nancyc@crawfordpartnership.org.
For questions or additional information, contact Nancy Clutter at 248-825-4099 or the email above.
About the Crawford Partnership
The Crawford Partnership is dedicated to advancing economic growth and workforce development in Crawford County by supporting businesses, fostering partnerships, and investing in talent development initiatives.