FuelAL HBCU Innovation Internship
The FuelAL HBCU Innovation Internship (FuelAL HBCU) is a paid, project-based internship experience designed to connect students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities with Alabama’s innovation ecosystem.
This program exists to solve two challenges at the same time: startups need high-quality, driven talent, and HBCU students need access to opportunities, networks, and real-world experience that aren’t always readily available.
FuelAL HBCU creates that connection—opening doors to internships, mentorship, and long-term career pathways within the innovation ecosystem while helping students build the social capital that leads to future opportunities.
The goal is bigger than a single internship. It’s about building a stronger pipeline of talent, strengthening Alabama companies, and creating pathways for future entrepreneurs.
What to Expect
FuelAL HBCU is a 12-week, project-based internship that runs during the academic year:
Fall August – November
Spring January – April
Students are placed with startups, accelerators, incubators, and innovation-focused organizations across Alabama.
During the program, participants can expect:
Real work experience: Hands-on projects that contribute to company growth
Paid internship: $3,000 stipend for the semester
Flexible schedule: Approximately 10–15 hours per week
Professional development: Four sessions focused on communication, workplace skills, and career readiness
Mentorship & exposure: Direct access to a statewide network of founders, operators, and innovation leaders
Additional support: Resources like transportation assistance to remove participation barriers
College credit: Students may earn 1–3 college credit hours, depending on their course of study, program requirements, and institution
This is not a coffee-run internship. Students are integrated into teams, contributing to meaningful work while gaining exposure to how innovative companies operate.
Who Should Apply
FuelAL HBCU is open to students attending HBCUs across Alabama, across all majors and backgrounds.
There is no single “perfect” candidate. The students who thrive in this program are:
Curious and eager to learn
Reliable and committed
Proactive and willing to ask questions
Adaptable and team-oriented
Driven to grow and take initiative
Whether you’re studying marketing, engineering, computer science, business, or another field, what matters most is your willingness to show up, learn, and contribute.
Cost
FuelAL HBCU is a paid opportunity.
Students receive a $3,000 stipend for the semester, along with additional support like transportation assistance when needed.
This ensures that access to high-quality internship experiences isn’t limited by financial barriers—making the program more equitable and accessible for all participants.
How It Works
The application and placement process is designed to ensure strong matches for both students and employers:
01.
Students apply to the program
02.
Selected applicants complete a one-on-one interview
03.
Top candidates are invited to a rotational interview experience
04.
Students and employers both rank their preferences
05.
Final matches are made based on mutual fit
This process ensures students are placed in roles where they can grow, contribute, and succeed.
Interested in applying to FuelAL HBCU?
