Santa Cruz AHSC-Backed Youth Internship Program FAQ

What is the AHSC 2025–26 Internship Opportunity Program?

It’s a program funded by the California Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities grant that provides paid internships for underserved youth in Santa Cruz, connecting them with local businesses for six-month positions to gain real-world work experience.

Who is funding this internship program?

The program is funded by the City of Santa Cruz through the California Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) grant, which is part of California’s effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote healthier communities.

Which organizations are running this internship program?

Santa Cruz Works recruits participating companies, while Digital NEST handles intern recruiting, training, and case management. Many interns come from bizzNEST, Digital NEST’s youth-powered creative agency.

How much funding do participating businesses receive?

Each participating company receives up to $10,000 in grant funding to compensate their interns, which lowers financial barriers for small businesses and startups eager to mentor emerging talent.

How many businesses and interns are participating?

Ten local businesses have welcomed interns for six-month, paid positions through the program.

What types of companies and roles are included in the program?

Participating companies include Climatize (video production), Nurbli (software development), X Academy (marketing), Mission Hill Creamery (marketing), Siena House (marketing), Go Ask Alice (social media marketing), Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery (video/digital storytelling), and Innovation Within.

Why is this program considered important for the community?

According to city officials, it levels the playing field for residents who have faced systemic barriers to employment while eliminating cost concerns for businesses that want to mentor and grow local talent, creating a more equitable future.

What is the ’earn-and-learn model’ mentioned in the program?

The earn-and-learn model provides paid experience, mentorship, and credentials to young people in their own communities, preparing them for wealth-building careers while addressing youth employment challenges.

How does this program align with California’s AHSC grant objectives?

The program advances the AHSC mission by connecting local talent to local jobs, reducing commute distances, fostering a more resilient economy, and linking economic opportunity with sustainable community development.

What are the expected long-term impacts of this internship program?

According to program organizers, the talent and energy these interns bring will ripple across the community for years to come, strengthening career pathways and the regional economy while preparing young people for sustainable careers.