Internship Program

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The MBDA Internship Program provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable professional experience and build leadership skills. This hands-on program is designed to mentor and cultivate today’s young leaders, strengthen their understanding of the business, government and prepare them for future public service opportunities.

• Office of Business Development

  • Access to Markets

  • Program Management

  • Knowledge Management I

  • Knowledge Management II

• Office of National Director

• Office of Legislation, Education, and Intergovernmental Affairs

• Office of Information Technology, Research and Innovation

How to Apply?

Student Eligibility:

1. Be enrolled at least half-time in an accredited institution and recommended by a school official.

2. Be at least 16 years old. (In some cases the age requirement may differ.)

3. Be a U.S. citizen of the U.S.

4. Meet the Department's policy on employment of relatives.

5. Pass a background check & meet security or fitness requirements.

The prospective student must meet all 5 of the established requirements listed above in order to be considered for an internship.

Interested students should:

1. Reach out to the point of contact listed at the bottom of each description expressing their interest AND,

2. Forward the following documents to Lester Purnell, MBDA Internship Coordinator:

• Cover Letter (including your internship preference)

• Resume (including a current mailing address)

• Writing Sample

Lester Purnell will work with the manager(s) identified in the specific internship of interest, and ensure a timely decision is made. Please send the documents via email to lpurnell@mbda.gov. 

If a conditional offer is made, the student will receive a set of background documents thru email. Students will also receive a set of fingerprint cards (via regular mail sent to the mailing address listed on your resume).  Fingerprint cards must be taken to a local police station, completed, and mailed back to Lester Purnell at the following address:

Lester Purnell
Minority Business Development Agency
HerbertC. Hoover Building, Room 5092
Washington, DC 20230

All documents and background checks MUST BE RECEIVED & PROCESSED prior to a firm offer being made.