Santa Cruz’s Innovative Pathway: Empowering Youth through Paid Internships

The Dawn of a New Era in Workforce Development

In the heart of Santa Cruz, CA, something remarkable is happening. A collaboration between Santa Cruz Works, a beacon for innovation, and Digital NEST, a champion of economic justice, is paving the way for a groundbreaking internship program. Thanks to the generous support of the City of Santa Cruz through the California Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) grant, this initiative is not just a win-win; it's a win-win-win for underserved youth, local businesses, and the broader community.

Imagine a world where the distance between talent and opportunity is shortened, where local businesses thrive by nurturing local talent, and where young people gain not just a job, but a career path that's both sustainable and fulfilling. That's the vision behind the AHSC 2025–26 Internship Opportunity Program.

Empowering the Youth and Local Businesses

The core of this initiative lies in its ability to provide paid internships to the youth of Santa Cruz County, particularly those from underserved communities. With ten local businesses already onboard, interns are stepping into roles ranging from video production to software development, marketing, and even social media outreach. Companies like Climatize, Nurbli, and Mission Hill Creamery have opened their doors to these eager minds, offering positions that are not just jobs, but stepping stones to brighter futures.

Each participating business benefits from up to $10,000 in grant funding to compensate their interns. This thoughtful approach lowers financial barriers for small businesses and startups, enabling them to invest in the next generation of talent. And let's not forget the interns themselves, many of whom hail from Digital NEST’s bizzNEST program, where they've honed their skills in digital marketing, software development, and design on real client projects.

A Model for Community-Driven Success

The synergy between Santa Cruz Works and Digital NEST exemplifies what can happen when organizations with shared values come together for the greater good. Bonnie Lipscomb, the City of Santa Cruz's Director of Economic Development and Housing, calls this grant a "game-changer." It's easy to see why. By addressing systemic barriers to employment and easing cost concerns for local businesses, this program levels the playing field in the most impactful way.

As Cathy Wright from Digital NEST puts it, the earn-and-learn model is a proven solution to youth employment challenges. It's about more than just earning a paycheck; it's about building wealth, gaining credentials, and ensuring these young people can envision a future for themselves right here in Santa Cruz County.

The enthusiasm is palpable, with Malina Long from Santa Cruz Works highlighting the talent and energy these interns bring to their roles. It's a testament to the power of community and the potential for local solutions to have far-reaching effects.

At the end of the day, it's clear that the partnership between Santa Cruz Works and Digital NEST isn’t just about filling job slots. It’s about crafting a vibrant, sustainable future for all members of the Santa Cruz community. Through initiatives like this, we’re reminded of the strength found in local solutions to global challenges. Here's to the next generation of Santa Cruz’s workforce, who, through opportunities like these, are set to shine not just locally, but on the world stage.