Why This Program Exists
Interns are an asset — when they’re trained and supported properly.
Without structure, seasonal interns can drain time and oversight from already busy managers. This program flips that dynamic. We equip communities with ready-to-use frameworks, weekly support, and peer networking so interns become productive, engaged, and part of a growing national movement toward food sovereignty.
Developed in partnership with Tsq’escen First Nation’s Online Recruitment and Retention Training Program, this model blends real-world agricultural skills with leadership development and community-driven capacity building.
Program Overview
The Sustainable Food Security Internship & Manager Training Program is a comprehensive support package for First Nations, rural, and remote communities seeking to strengthen their local food systems.
Each community receives a multi-module online training program, customized templates, and access to live national support sessions — ensuring interns and managers succeed throughout the growing season.
💡 All training packages are priced per community, not per participant (unless indicated)
Training Options & Add-Ons
| Component | Description | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. 12-Week Intern Training Program (Per Community) | Structured, site-specific intern curriculum covering greenhouse operations, soil health, planting, harvest, food use, and community engagement. Includes intern and facilitator manuals, templates, and access to the Tsq’escen First Nation online training portal for 1 year. | 12 weeks + online access | $5,000 / community |
| 2. Manager Supplement | Detailed guidance for on-site supervisors on intern management, evaluation, and integration into daily operations. | 16 weeks including recruitment and reporting assistance | $1,500 |
| 3. Funding Application Support | Step-by-step support to secure funding for wages and training (e.g., CSJ, IAFBC, FN Youth Employment). | As needed | $1,000 |
| 4. Weekly Webinars & Check-Ins | Live online sessions for interns and managers — troubleshooting, sharing best practices, and building a national peer network. | Up to 16 weeks | $300 / week |
| 5. Social Media Support & Troubleshooting | Photo submissions and live feedback on greenhouse setup, crop issues, and community engagement. | 12–16 weeks | $150 / week |
Total package cost: $12,900 - $14,700
*Program can support as many interns as needed
On-Site Training Intensives
| Program | Description | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Day Manager Intensive | Hands-on leadership and operations training at one of our partner farm sites. Includes all meals, materials, activities, and local transport. | 10 days | $5,500 / manager |
| 8-Day Intern Intensive | Practical agricultural training: planting, maintenance, harvest, food handling, and community programming. Includes meals, supervised activities and local transport. | 8 days | $4,500 / intern |
Program Benefits
Recommended Implementation Timeline
| Month | Focus |
|---|---|
| March–April | Manager onboarding & online training (optional on-site intensive) |
| May–August | Intern program rollout + weekly check-ins & webinars |
| September | Wrap-up evaluations, reporting & planning for next year |