About the Community Based Internship Fund
The Community Based Internship Fund supports community partners in hosting new or existing University of Michigan student interns. With funding from U-M's Democracy, Civic Empowerment & Global Engagement initiative, the Ginsberg Center awards internship funding to local community partners working to drive social change across southeast Michigan. Partners apply for funding and select their own interns, while the Ginsberg Center pays interns directly.
Interns contribute across a range of pathways to civic engagement, including direct service, policy and governance, research, community organizing and activism, philanthropy, and social entrepreneurship. All internship opportunities take place in Spring/Summer 2025.
26-27 Internships are Open Now!
Internship opportunities for the 26-27 academic year are now LIVE! Visit our portal and search "CBIFUND" to view all opportunities.
This year's community partners hosts are: Community Action Network Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars Educate Youth Foundations Preschool Friends In Deed Midcourse Correction Challenge Camps Neighbors for More Neighbors A2 Porter's Place Voce Velata West Willow Mobile Clinic Initiative
Students
The Community Based Internship Fund connects U-M students with paid internships at local nonprofits and community groups across southeast Michigan. Interns build skills, grow their network, and contribute to projects that matter to their community — all while getting paid for their work. CBI-funded interns also receive ongoing support and mentorship from the Ginsberg Center to help them make the most of their internship experience.
Students apply directly to internships through the Connect2Community Portal.
Community Partners
The Community Based Internship Fund deadline for the 2026–27 academic year closed on August 3. We share updates on the fund, including new calls for proposals, through Ginsberg Center's social media channels and our community partner newsletter. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram pages or email us at [email protected] to be added to our email list.
FAQ
What is the purpose of this internship fund?
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The internship fund aims to support Ginsberg Center’s community partners by providing funding for internships that contribute to capacity building work for organizations working to advance social change and civic engagement in southeast Michigan.
Who is eligible to apply for the internship fund?
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Nonprofits, schools, government agencies, and community organizations based in southeast Michigan can apply.
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Funding can be used to support undergraduate and graduate student interns who are currently enrolled at University of Michigan Ann Arbor.
How can our organization apply for funding?
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Interested organizations can apply by submitting a proposal through our online application.
What is the deadline for submitting proposals?
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Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted with a final deadline of July 17, 2026.
What are the criteria for selecting proposals?
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Capacity Building: The internship should contribute to building the capacity of the host organization to fulfill its mission and service the community better. This includes the potential for lasting impact beyond the term of the internship and whether the initiative has the potential to grow or be replicated in the future.
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The internship should target the Washtenaw County and/or Southeast Michigan community, benefiting local populations and addressing regional challenges.
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Educational Value: Internships should offer significant educational and practical experiences that prepare students to be active, informed citizens through comprehensive training, mentorship, and opportunities for skill development.
How much funding can an organization receive?
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CBI Funds yearlong internship placements for the academic year 26-27 at up to 10 hours a week.
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Students will be paid an hourly wage set by the University based on their degree program (undergraduate, masters, doctoral).
Can our organization submit more than one proposal?
- Organizations are welcome to submit multiple internship proposals. However, because funding is limited, we typically fund no more than one proposal per organization within the same funding cycle/time period.
When will the funding decisions be announced?
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Funding decisions will be announced on a rolling basis starting in early July.
Who can we contact for further questions or assistance?
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For any additional questions or assistance, please email [email protected]