Internship programs
Designed for unique learners.
We serve motivated neurodivergent young people who are looking to advance their futures.
At the heart of our model is an evidence-based approach that benefits both interns and employers. Our approach empowers interns while supporting employers in creating accessible workplaces.
Individualized & comprehensive support
Our programs combine paid internships with comprehensive training and personalized coaching, creating a supportive environment where participants develop independence, confidence, and effective professional communication skills to access their potential.
Selective process
Our interns are selected through a competitive process representing diverse academic, social, cultural, and economic backgrounds and united by their strong work ethic, talents and commitment to success.
Broad sectors
Our employer partners provide internships across a broad range of sectors, including STEM, marketing & communications, policy, hospitality, and more.
DC Internships
Our DC program offers a supportive in-person model that combines group training, peer-to-peer learning and individualized coaching and mentoring. While many of our participants come from the DC Metropolitan area, we also welcome and encourage young people from across the country who are eager to experience an internship in our vibrant city.
National Internships
Our National Program partners with employers across the country to provide in-person internships with comprehensive remote support. Most internships in this program are specifically focused in the STEM fields.
What to expect
Step 1
Learn and prepare
Begin by exploring BroadFutures—attend an information session, browse our website, watch videos, and hear testimonials from interns and employers. Gather key details about your education, work, or volunteer experience. Secure two references who can speak to your abilities—these must be supervisors from an educational or work setting, not family members.
Step 2
Apply & Selection
Choose the program that matches your qualifications and goals. After review, qualified applicants will be invited for an interview. References are contacted only if you advance. Final decisions: acceptance, waitlist, or rejection.
Step 3
Join BroadFutures as an intern
Upon acceptance, confirm your participation and you will be assigned a mentor/coach. Your intern and supervisor placements will be communicated at least a few weeks before the program begins. We will also conduct intake meetings and onboarding with your employer prior to the start of the internship.
Frequently asked questions
Can you clarify who you serve?
We work with neurodivergent young people, typically with LD, ADHD, or autism, aged 18-26 with a high school diploma. They are all college capable. Although some are not yet college ready, or have decided not to pursue college. All are motivated to join the program and understand the value of our competitive internships and support model for their success.
When is the best time to participate in a BroadFutures program? If an applicant is a freshman in college, does it make sense to wait until they are more mature?
It depends on the individual. We work with young people right out of high school as well as those who have graduated college. For certain internships, such as in think tanks, policy, or IT, prior experience or coursework is generally required. For applicants seeking any internship experience, the decision depends more on motivation and maturity.
Is it a competitive application process?
Our application process is competitive. We receive approximately three times the number of applicants as there are spots in our programs. This number includes applicants who do not complete the full application process, such as those who fail to finish the application, provide references, or sign up for an interview.
What are the skill sets of your staff?
All of our staff are fully trained by BroadFutures on how to deliver support to our interns and our employers. Our mentors and coaches bring a broad and diverse range of skills that are highly relevant to the work we do. Nearly all have graduate degrees and certifications in fields directly aligned with our mission, and many have specialized areas of expertise. Their experience and knowledge enable them to provide tailored, effective support that ensures the success of our interns.
Where are your internships located?
Some of your programs have a fee. Is there financial support available?
Additionally, our internships are paid. In the D.C. program, interns receive stipends equivalent to the D.C. minimum wage. Depending on the program, interns can earn between $2,500 and $3,800. For our National Program, compensation varies based on the specific internship.
We are committed to making our programs accessible to all qualified applicants. With scholarships and stipends we aim to ensure cost does not deter anyone from participating in our transformative programs.
Join our monthly information session
To learn more about our programs, register for our monthly information session here
Looking for more detail?
Explore eligibility criteria, policies, housing options, and more.
“One of the most important lessons I learned through BroadFutures is that growth happens when you confront challenges head-on. BroadFutures supported me every step of the way, helping me navigate unfamiliar situations and empowering me to stay adaptable.”
Nadia, Summer 2024