Deluxe E-ternship Program
Semester Part-time Paid Internships with Top Startup Companies
Interested in working with startups? Student applications for the 2026 Spring semester are now closed. Company applications will be closing on December 5th.
If you are a company looking to host an intern, Click Here.
The Deluxe E-ternship Program connects early-stage companies and undergraduate students in mutually beneficial collaboration on cross-functional projects. This program provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to become members of high-potential entrepreneurial teams. At the same time, the program provides companies with student resources for cross-functional projects. Projects can range from market research to evaluation of new products/services/markets to business planning to support the launch of a new venture.
Student Internship Placements at Local Startups
Student-Focused
- Test students' interest and capability in an early-stage innovative venture
- Gain first-hand exposure to an entrepreneur as they build their business
- Apply students' entrepreneurship coursework in a real-world environment
Entrepreneur-Focused
- Provide early-stage companies with student resources and new perspectives
- Encourage mentorship opportunities and experience in bringing on new team members
- Support the overall growth of the Twin Cities Entrepreneurial community by providing resources and expertise
Eligibility
Applicants must be current students at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus, enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits* during the semester they will be participating in the program and not studying abroad. (*If you are a senior, this minimum may be waived; contact the program coordinator.)
The Deluxe E-ternship Program is offered only during the Fall and Spring semesters (September – May).
Process
Application
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Copy of Unofficial UMN Transcript
- Students are selected based upon a demonstrated passion for entrepreneurship, leadership skills, and academic record.
Spring 2026 Schedule
Applications Open: Wednesday, October 29th
Applications Close: Wednesday, November 26th
Selected Students Notified: Wednesday, December 3rd
Kick-Off Meeting: Wednesday, December 10th
Student Company Preferences Due: Friday, December 19th
Matches Finalized: Monday, December 22nd
E-ternship Begins: Tuesday, January 20th
E-ternship Ends: Monday, May 4th
Testimonial
“Ava and Sanjana are some of the most incredible young women I have met and brought so much joy to me and Mom Badge. They made a huge impact on my company and our momentum forward: design, video editing, teaming on my application for the Launch Grant, strategic planning, social media content creation - all the things." - Rachel (Founder of Mom Badge, Deluxe Participant 2024)