Internship Program

The CBI Summer Internship Program is designed to help Iowa community banks connect with college students pursuing careers in banking, finance, and business.

Backed by a comprehensive Internship Handbook with a proven 10-week program outline, this structured experience makes it easy for banks to deliver meaningful, hands-on learning while building a strong pipeline of future leaders.

Contact us to receive a copy of the internship handbook.

2 pairs of hands holding a notebook and Calculator over a desk with office supplies on it

Why Community Banks Participate

The CBI internship program helps your bank:

Attract students interested in community banking careers

Develop future employees through real-world experience

Strengthen your presence in the local community

Offset costs with a $1,000 scholarship match

Students contribute meaningful work while gaining a full understanding of how community banks operate.

How the Internship Program Works

This 10 to 12 week internship gives students a complete view of community banking in Iowa. Interns will:

  • Rotate through departments such as lending, operations, marketing, and compliance

  • Complete a project that benefits your bank

  • Present recommendations to leadership

  • Engage with your team and local community

By the end of the program, students gain practical experience and a clear understanding of the role community banks play in local economies.

Program Details

  • Open to college sophomores and juniors in business-related fields
  • Available exclusively through CBI member banks
  • Limited to 8 internship scholarships each year
  • Includes a $1,000 scholarship from the CBI Education Foundation, matched by the bank

To receive a copy of the handbook, contact us!

A Ready-to-Use Internship Program

We’ve developed a comprehensive Internship Handbook that outlines a 10-week program, including structure, curriculum, and expectations. It’s designed to save your team time and provide a consistent, high-quality experience for interns so you can focus on mentoring and development, not building a program from scratch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the CBI internship program?

College sophomores and juniors pursuing degrees in finance, accounting, business, agribusiness, marketing, or management are eligible.

How do community banks participate?

Only CBI member banks can apply. Banks recruit and hire their own interns and apply to the program before the internship begins.

What do interns do during the program?

Interns rotate through key departments, complete a project, and present their work to bank leadership while gaining hands-on experience.

Is there funding available?

Yes. The program provides a $1,000 scholarship to interns upon completion, which must be matched by the participating bank.