Office of Programs
Internship

Internships are available with the following Agency teams:

  • Indo-Pacific
  • Latin America and the Caribbean
  • Monitoring and Evaluation
  • Sub-Saharan Africa

Summary

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency strengthens U.S. national security by developing overseas infrastructure projects that advance the shared strategic priorities of the United States and our overseas partners. USTDA is the U.S. government’s first mover on critical infrastructure development abroad. The Agency funds the upfront work that accelerates the preparation of infrastructure projects and facilitates the deployment of trusted U.S. solutions for their implementation, including feasibility studies, technical assistance and pilot projects. USTDA also hosts activities that promote exclusive infrastructure partnerships with the United States and catalyze the export of American technology to critical infrastructure projects overseas.

Requirements

All internships are either in-person or virtual and available to students who are U.S. citizens and currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program.  Strong writing and analytical skills coupled with excellent work and academic credentials are essential. A demonstrated interest in international development and business is preferred. All internships are unpaid, however USTDA will work with schools to help interns secure course credits.

For fall internships, USTDA seeks a commitment of at least 16 hours per week over a 12-week period. Fall internships start September 22, 2025, and end December 12, 2025. USTDA is willing to consider earlier start dates and later end dates.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may vary by Agency team but generally include:

  • Researching a variety of topics, including global market trends in key economic sectors, partner country procurement practices, U.S. industry competitiveness, regional and country-specific economic and development trends, and broader policy and trade issues.
  • Conducting research and compiling background information on USTDA’s prospective domestic and overseas partners.
  • Analyzing sets of project data to assess key trends and patterns and providing written analysis of conclusions to inform region and sector planning efforts.
  • Researching the outcomes of USTDA’s funding, including the export of U.S. goods and services as well as development benefits realized by overseas grantees.
  • Assisting with the drafting of memoranda and correspondence with stakeholders.
  • Preparing background information and briefing materials for USTDA personnel.
  • Assisting with planning and preparation for meetings and outreach with USTDA partners.
  • Providing general administrative support.

Education

Ideal candidates will have an educational background in international relations, finance and economics, regional studies, sector studies and related disciplines.

Additional Information

U.S. citizenship is required, and interns will need to successfully complete a background screening prior to the start of the internship.

Required Documents

Applications must include a cover letter, resume, school transcript(s) and writing sample.  Candidates must specify the Agency team(s) for which they would like to be considered.  Candidates will be evaluated on their relevant skills and experience, demonstrated interest in international business and/or foreign assistance and the quality of their application materials. 

Benefits

  • Career development roundtables with USTDA leadership
  • Intern lunch with USTDA’s Director
  • Frequent social and networking events
  • Capitol Hill and think tank events on international trade and development
  • Academic course credits

How to Apply

Applications for the upcoming fall are accepted through Friday, August 22, 2025, to the attention of Silvia Umana, Intern Coordinator, via email, at internships@ustda.gov. USTDA may accept internship applications after this date, subject to the availability of unfilled internship slots.