Ginsberg Center's Community-Based Internship Fund is made possible by the generous support of University of Michigan’s Democracy, Civic Empowerment & Global Engagement initiative, this funding supports Ginsberg partners with financial support for U-M Interns to drive social change across southeast Michigan.
The Community-Based Internship Fund (CBI) supports community organizations working in southeast Michigan to fund undergraduate and graduate student internships with a focus on capacity building projects with lasting impact.
Application Information
Community Partners
The Spring/Summer 2026 CBI Fund Application is CLOSED!
Check back in early June for the Fall/Winter CBI Fund Application.
Students
Internship opportunities for spring/summer 2026 will be available soon. Check back for updates!
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.
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Priority will be given to partners with a previous relationship with Ginsberg Center.
How can our organization apply for funding?
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Interested organizations can apply by submitting a proposal through our online application. Deadline: May 11th, 2026, priority deadline: May 1st 2026
What is the deadline for submitting proposals?
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The priority deadline for submission is February 28. Applications submitted after the priority deadline will be considered based upon fund availability.
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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Creating communities where everyone can thrive: Alignment with Ginsberg Center’s Vision for inclusive democracy; thriving, diverse communities; and equity and social justice
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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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Organizations can apply for up to 120 hours of funding for spring/summer term. Requests for internship funding of more than 120 hours will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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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 May.
Who can we contact for further questions or assistance?
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For any additional questions or assistance, please email [email protected]