Are you an African American student or recent graduate eager to gain real-world experience in public policy, communications, or leadership? The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) has opened its 2026 internship programmes, a suite of paid, career-building opportunities designed to immerse you in the U.S. legislative and policy space.
For decades, the CBCF has been empowering young Black leaders through scholarships, internships and fellowships, helping them grow into principled advocates, skilled analysts, and effective public servants. These internships are competitive, hands-on, and strategically positioned to give you a front-row seat to how policy and governance work in the U.S.
What Makes CBCF Internships Unique?
Unlike many internship programmes, CBCF’s offerings:
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Provide paid placements — with stipends and, in most cases, housing support;
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Connect participants with policymakers, congressional staff, and corporate leaders;
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Include professional development training, mentorship, and networking that can propel your career.
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Position you to build credentials in public service, law, communications, or corporate affairs.
These programmes aren’t just internships: they’re career-shaping experiences that open doors to future leadership roles.
Who Can Apply?
The CBCF internships are designed primarily for African American or Black students and recent graduates who are motivated to work in policy, government, media, or corporate policy environments.
General eligibility includes:
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Being a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the U.S.;
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Currently enrolled full-time in college or recently graduated;
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Meeting minimum GPA requirements (typically between 2.5 and 3.0 depending on the programme);
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Demonstrating a genuine interest in public policy, legislative work, media, or corporate affairs.
Each programme may include additional criteria, so be sure to check specific details before applying.
CBCF Internship Programmes at a Glance
Here’s a breakdown of the key opportunities available in 2026:
Walmart Emerging Leaders Internship
This track places interns in congressional offices, committees, or subcommittees, giving you hands-on experience with the legislative process. Expect to engage in:
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Policy research and legislative drafting
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Constituent services
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Communications work
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Networking with staff and elected officials
State Farm Communications Internship
Perfect for students interested in media strategy and communications, this internship places you with congressional press teams, where you can:
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Draft press releases
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Support speechwriting
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Manage social media
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Learn messaging strategy
Like the Emerging Leaders programme, this track includes housing, a stipend and professional growth opportunities.
Congressional Internship Program
This summer-focused opportunity immerses interns directly within the offices of Congressional Black Caucus Members in Washington, D.C. You’ll be involved in hands-on policy work, including research and constituent engagement.
Preference may be given to candidates from CBC Member districts, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Pathways to C-Suite Internship Program
Want to explore policy and leadership within the private sector? This exciting track places interns with corporate partners to think about technology, finance, government affairs, and more to see how policy and business intersect at the executive level.
This programme also includes stipends, housing, and professional development opportunities to prepare future leaders in corporate and policy spaces.
Why This Matters
CBCF internships are more than just summer experiences — they’re launchpads into meaningful careers in public service, advocacy, media, and corporate leadership. With access to influential networks and real policy environments, you’ll build skills that last well beyond your internship term.
Many alumni of CBCF programmes go on to influential roles in government agencies, public policy organisations, and corporate leadership teams.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the official CBCF internships portal. As deadlines and start dates vary by programme and term (spring, summer or fall), it’s best to apply early and double-check timelines on the CBCF website.
Be prepared with:
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Academic transcripts
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GPA verification
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A thoughtful personal statement
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Any additional documents requested for your chosen programme
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to jumpstart a career in policy, communications, or leadership and want paid, professional experience that matters, the CBCF Internship Programs 2026 offer an incredible opportunity. With exposure to government, media, and corporate environments, you won’t just be interning; you’ll be walking a path toward lasting impact.
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