March 2 is the last day for Omaha’s youth and young adults to submit their applications for the 2026 Step-Up Omaha program. As the application process closes, Empowerment Network (empoweromaha.com) is calling on more employers to join the effort to build Omaha’s future workforce. Over 1,000 students have already applied. The paid summer employment program begins June 2 and aims to place 800 to 1,000 interns in 2026.
“This is how we retain our talent and create our future workforce,” said Mayor John Ewing at a recent press conference. “It was a program just like this where I interned with the police department at the age of 14, eventually joining OPD and rising to Deputy Chief, before becoming Douglas County Treasurer and nowMayor. These programs have a positive impact.”
By hosting interns, employers gain motivated support while playing a direct role in developing Omaha’s future workforce. The program handles the matching process and offers coaching and support to ensure a successful experience on both sides. Step-Up also focuses on developing and retaining our local talent. Interns bring creativity and innovative ideas to the workplace. It’s part of the Empowerment Network’s Transformation 2030 vision, which aims to connect more than 14,000 people to jobs and attract $4.43 billion in investments into North Omaha.
Employers can apply at StepUpOmaha.com/employers.