In a groundbreaking collaboration between the Aksarben Foundation and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, InternNE, Powered by Aksarben, was launched in October 2023 to combat Nebraska’s alarming “brain drain” trend. This initiative aims to create opportunities for college graduates, high school students, and nontraditional learners, ultimately strengthening Nebraska’s workforce and retaining young talent in the state.
InternNE, Powered by Aksarben, addresses the pressing issue of college-educated individuals leaving Nebraska for opportunities elsewhere. The “brain drain” phenomenon has seen a more than fourfold increase over the last decade, posing a significant challenge to the state’s economic growth and future prosperity. Nebraska’s brain drain is currently among the highest in the nation, with only North Dakota and New York experiencing greater losses by percentage.
The program, under the leadership of Governor Jim Pillen, received a two-year grant totaling $20 million to scale up its efforts. Applications for the first grant cycle opened on October 1, 2023, and closed on November 30, 2023. Ninety-five business applications were awarded representing $3,373,500 in grant funding. This amounts to 614 internship opportunities throughout 18 communities all across the state.
InternNE, Powered by Aksarben, is dedicated to connecting students and young professionals with high-quality internship opportunities across the state. Through partnerships with TeamMates Mentoring Program, community colleges and universities, and Chambers of Commerce, including the Nebraska State Chamber, Greater Omaha Chamber, Lincoln Chamber, Norfolk, and the Midlands African Chamber.
Sandra Reding, President of the Aksarben Foundation, highlighted the importance of workforce development and the competition for young, tech-savvy talent, stating, “The competition across the country for talent is fierce. We need to do all we can to connect our talent to the opportunities that exist in Nebraska.”
InternNE, Powered by Aksarben, aligns with the ongoing efforts to address Nebraska’s workforce challenges. Governor Jim Pillen established a working group to brainstorm solutions to the state’s workforce issues. The initiative also focuses on growing high-tech jobs within Nebraska, increasing internship opportunities, and enhancing the state’s appeal to young professionals.
As communities across Nebraska are making strides to become more attractive and dynamic, the program seeks to offer a compelling narrative about the careers and lifestyles available within the state. Internships play a crucial role in showcasing the opportunities Nebraska has to offer to young talent.
“Across rural and urban Nebraska, we need to invest in creating a strong and vibrant middle class,” said Governor Pillen. “InternNe will ensure kids have the skills and training that will allow them to have great careers, right here in our state.”
“Survey data confirms that a majority of Nebraska’s youth want to live in a community similar to where they grew up,” said K.C. Belitz, Director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. “Yet more than half of students cite the inability to find a career opportunity as the top reason they would move elsewhere. As a state, we must do better at connecting students to a job in their hometown. Aksarben is leading the way forward. Through Intern Nebraska, they’re equipping businesses to send a clear message to our youth: the job you want exists right here in Nebraska and we want you on our team.”
The Aksarben Foundation, in collaboration with local chambers and educational institutions, has been at the forefront of addressing the brain drain challenge, supporting initiatives like InternNE, Powered by Aksarben, to bridge the gap and promote economic growth.
“As a state we have such an opportunity to expand internship opportunities for young people and show them that there is a place for them here,” says Sandra Reding, President of the Aksarben Foundation.
“InternNE aims to demonstrate that Nebraska is not just a place to learn but also a place to live, work, and grow professionally,” adds Shonna Dorsey, Executive Director of InternNE, Powered by Aksarben.
For more information about the Aksarben Foundation, visit www.aksarben.org.