Build real‑world skills and explore career paths through paid summer internships
Step Up Foundations
Where Employers and Future Leaders Connect
Start Your Step Up Journey
Applications Due Feb. 28
Help shape Minneapolis’ future workforce by offering meaningful, skill‑building internships to local youth
What is Step Up
Step Up is the City of Minneapolis’ flagship youth employment program that connects teens and young adults ages 14–21 with paid summer internships, professional training, and career exploration opportunities. Each year, Step Up partners with more than 200 local employers to place over 1,400 Minneapolis youth in meaningful, skill‑building work experiences that help prepare them for future careers. The program is a collaboration between the City of Minneapolis, Achieve Twin Cities, CareerForce Minneapolis, and Project for Pride in Living (PPL).
Step Up Foundations
Step Up Foundations is a partnership pathway designed specifically to recruit and prepare employer partners who want to support Minneapolis youth through early career exposure and foundational skill‑building. Step Up Foundations focuses on engaging employers first, helping them design meaningful entry‑level experiences, strengthen their youth‑readiness practices, and build the conditions for successful future internship placements.
Results that Matter
Building meaningful change in our community since 2003
Benefits to Partnering With Us
Access to Motivated, Diverse Emerging Talent
Employers gain early access to a pipeline of young, motivated workers who bring fresh ideas, cultural fluency, and perspectives that strengthen teams and promote innovation.
Strengthening the Workforce of the Future
Partnership helps employers invest in their long‑term talent strategy. By shaping real‑world work experiences, businesses can cultivate skilled future employees and reduce future recruitment costs.
Support from PPL as a Primary Partner
PPL provides hands‑on support—including coaching, training, and preparation for young people—so employers receive participants who are ready to contribute from day one. This reduces onboarding time and increases the likelihood of a successful placement.
Demonstrated Community Leadership
Participating employers show a visible commitment to equity, opportunity, and community prosperity. This builds brand trust and strengthens relationships with customers, employees, and the broader community.
Flexible, Supported Placement Options
Step Up and PPL work with employers to design placements that fit business needs. Employers receive clear communication, resources, and ongoing support throughout the partnership.
Our Partnership Network
- Tree Trust
- Pillsbury United Communities
- American Institute of Architects
- Government including Hennepin County, City of Minneapolis, Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board
- Schools including Minneapolis Public Schools and University of Minnesota
- Urban Strategies
- Cookie Cart
- Asian Media Access
- Migizi Communications
