14 Business Internships for Undergraduates in Alabama
Doing an internship during college is one of the smartest moves you can make because it bridges the gap between textbook theory and professional work. You gain practical experience in a field you care about, which can help you figure out if it is the right career path for you. Internships enhance your resume by showing future employers that you already have the skills and drive to contribute. Ultimately, getting this kind of exposure improves your overall employability, making it much easier to land a great job right after graduation.
Why should I do a business internship in college?
A business internship during college allows you to explore how organizations operate while developing skills that are difficult to gain through coursework alone. You may work on projects related to market research, strategy, data analysis, operations, or communications, depending on the organization. These experiences help you understand professional expectations, workplace dynamics, and the practical application of business concepts. Internships can also strengthen your employability by giving you relevant experience that employers often expect from entry-level candidates. In addition, you may receive mentorship from professionals who can provide career guidance and feedback on your work. By completing an internship, you demonstrate initiative, build professional networks, and gain clearer insight into which business fields interest you most.
To make your search easier, we've combed through countless local options to bring you a carefully selected list of the 14 best business internships for undergraduates in Alabama.
1. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Costs vary depending on the program type; financial aid is available / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10–25% acceptance; 70–100 students per session
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November); apply here
Eligibility: Undergraduate and gap year students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks
The Ladder University Internship Program is a selective, fully virtual experience where you collaborate directly with startup founders and nonprofits on real-world business challenges. During the program, you will explore diverse fields such as finance, consulting, media, and healthcare technology. You will engage in several core activities, which include tackling hands-on projects that address your assigned company's operational needs, shadowing experienced managers, incorporating weekly feedback from a dedicated coach, and formally presenting your findings at the end. A highly unique feature of this internship is that you are mentored by elite founders from organizations like Y Combinator, Google, and McKinsey. Ultimately, you will learn practical data analysis, business research, problem-solving, and professional communication skills to significantly elevate your future career prospects.
2. Alabama Data Scholars Program – QuantHub
Location: Alabama (on-site, hybrid, or virtual opportunities available)
Stipend: $2,400
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; approximately 25–50 Scholars
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Undergraduate students or recent graduates from an accredited Alabama college or university
The Alabama Data Scholars Program bridges the gap between raw data and business strategy by placing you in an 8-week paid internship with an Alabama-based employer. Throughout the summer, you will explore core business topics like data-driven decision making, business analytics, predictive modeling, and ethical AI stewardship. Your day-to-day will involve working on corporate challenges, building functional data dashboards, earning specific micro-credentials on the QuantHub platform, and showcasing your final project to industry leaders. Ultimately, you will walk away mastering highly sought-after business intelligence skills, including data storytelling, statistical analysis, and advanced visualization.
3. Student Leaders Program – Bank of America
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Stipend: $17/hour or local minimum wage, whichever is higher
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; 300 students nationally
Dates: June – July (6 weeks); mandatory Leadership Summit is scheduled for June 16–18
Application Deadline: March 16
Eligibility: Undergraduates at least 18 years old, have completed a high school diploma or equivalent within the last 24 months, and have earned between 12 and 18 credit hours of post-secondary coursework; authorized to work in the U.S.
In the Bank of America Student Leaders Program, you complete a summer internship with a local nonprofit organization while participating in leadership development activities. During the program, you will work approximately 35 hours per week supporting nonprofit initiatives such as community outreach, program coordination, communications, or administrative projects. Alongside the internship, you take part in workshops and training sessions that explore community development, economic issues, and collaboration between public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Participants also attend a leadership summit in Washington, D.C., where they meet peers from across the country and engage in seminars and discussions about civic leadership.
4. Birmingham Business Alliance – Business Intelligence Intern
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Stipend: $21/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; limited cohort sizes
Dates: June 8 – July 30
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Currently enrolled undergraduates who are rising sophomores or higher in a program related to economic development principles (Business, Economics, Public Policy, Finance, Public Administration, Political Science, or related)
In this internship, you will dive directly into the data that drives economic growth across the Greater Birmingham region. Throughout the program, you will explore core topics like regional economics, market research, and competitive demographic analysis. Your daily activities will involve gathering labor market data, updating CRM databases, and creating targeted regional profiles for companies considering relocating to Alabama. The role gives you direct exposure to high-level economic development strategy, showing you exactly how a major city attracts and retains large corporations. Ultimately, you will develop practical skills in data visualization, corporate research, and professional reporting to significantly strengthen your future employability.
5. Technology, Operations, Digital and Data (TODD) Emerging Talent Internship – Regions Bank
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Stipend: Paid hourly, rate not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; approximately 110–115 interns
Dates: 9-10-week summer internship; early June through early August
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Current undergraduate students; should be pursuing a degree in Computer Science, MIS, Data Science, or a related technical field
In the TODD Emerging Talent Internship at Regions Bank, you work within the Technology, Operations, Digital, and Data organization to gain practical experience in technology-driven business functions. During the program, you will be assigned to a specific team where you will contribute to projects related to digital platforms, operations, or data initiatives. Interns participate in training sessions such as Agile methodology workshops while collaborating with team members on technical assignments. The program also includes networking opportunities with leaders across the organization and participation in activities such as an AWS-focused hackathon. Through these experiences, you gain exposure to how technology and data teams support banking operations and digital services.
6. Generation Support / Data Analytics Internship – Southern Power
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Stipend: Paid hourly, rate not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; generally 5–15 interns per major functional area
Dates: Spring, summer, and fall terms
Application Deadline: Summer: Typically late January (Rolling basis); Spring/Fall: Deadlines vary by role
Eligibility: Undergraduate students with a minimum 3.0 GPA (for internship positions); authorized to work in the U.S.
In the Southern Power internship program, you work with teams that support the company’s electricity generation and energy operations. Interns contribute to projects related to data analysis, fleet-wide operations, and maintenance support for power generation facilities. Your responsibilities may include analyzing operational data, assisting with reports, supporting engineering or maintenance teams, and helping improve internal processes. The program may also involve tasks related to wholesale energy trading, power purchase agreements, or performance tracking across energy assets such as solar, wind, and natural gas facilities. Interns collaborate with professionals across departments and may participate in job shadowing and networking opportunities with company leaders.
7. Economic Development Summer Internship – Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA)
Location: Various locations across Alabama (including Birmingham, Montgomery, and Mobile)
Stipend: Paid weekly, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; approximately 6 interns
Dates: Approximately 10 weeks during the summer, starting early June
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: Undergraduate students classified as rising seniors or above as of June 1
In the Economic Development Summer Internship Program, you work with economic development organizations across Alabama to gain insight into how businesses and industries are recruited and supported within the state. Interns are placed with partner organizations such as state agencies, energy companies, or regional economic development groups. During the program, you will assist with tasks such as researching potential industries, supporting proposal development for prospective businesses, and analyzing economic incentives at the local, state, and federal levels. You may also attend meetings with domestic and international prospects and collaborate with economic development professionals on recruitment initiatives. The internship involves working with other interns on projects and may include travel within the state to understand different regional development efforts.
8. FuelAL HBCU Innovation Internship – Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA)
Location: Various innovation hubs and startup organizations across Alabama
Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; 8–20 students per semester
Dates: Spring: ~12 weeks (Late January – April); Summer: ~8–10 weeks (June – Early August); Fall: ~12 weeks (September – December)
Application Deadline: Spring: October 17; Fall: March 13; Summer: May 31
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled at participating Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Alabama
In the FuelAL HBCU Innovation Internship, you work with startups, accelerators, and innovation-focused organizations across Alabama’s technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem. During the 12-week program, you will contribute to project-based assignments that may involve supporting product development, research, operations, or business strategy initiatives within emerging companies. You also participate in professional development sessions focused on leadership, communication, and technical skills relevant to innovation-driven industries. The program encourages collaboration with professionals and other interns while providing exposure to how startups and innovation hubs operate. Through these experiences, you gain insight into how ideas progress from early concepts to prototypes or minimum viable products.
9. Summer Sales Intern – Smith Douglas Homes
Location: Pelham, AL, and Harvest/Huntsville, AL (On-site at community locations)
Stipend: $13.75–$18.50/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not publicly disclosed
Dates: 8-Week duration (Typically June – July; exact start dates may vary by division)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university
The Smith Douglas Homes Summer Sales Internship is an eight-week program that immerses you in the residential real estate and homebuilding industry. Throughout the summer, you will explore core business topics like customer engagement, sales operations, and community marketing. Your day-to-day activities will include welcoming prospective homebuyers into model homes, explaining various floor plans, assisting with lead follow-ups, and managing data within CRM systems. A unique feature of this program is the direct mentorship you receive from seasoned New Home Sales Specialists while working on-site at active community developments. Ultimately, you will learn practical skills in professional communication, relationship building, and direct sales to strengthen your future career.
10. Summer Sales Management Trainee Intern – Enterprise Holdings
Location: Multiple sites across Alabama, including Birmingham (Hoover, Crestwood, Inverness) and Montgomery (Eastern Blvd)
Stipend: $15/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; 2–5 interns per branch
Dates: Launch & Orientation: May 20; Core Training: May 27 – 29; Conclusion/Final Presentation: July 29 – 30
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Rising seniors enrolled full-time for the upcoming semester; at least 18 years old; 6 months of experience in sales, customer service, marketing, or management; Valid driver’s license with a clean record (no more than 2 violations/accidents in 3 years); US work authorization
The Enterprise Sales Management Trainee Internship immerses you in branch operations, covering core topics like finance, sales, and marketing. During the summer, you will manage a vehicle fleet, handle customer sales transactions, and execute marketing strategies to grow the business. A unique feature of this role is that you carry the same responsibilities as full-time employees, even starting the formal training steps for future management promotions. Through these tasks, you will build essential skills in leadership, professional communication, and high-pressure problem solving. This experience ensures you are a vital contributor to the company rather than just an observer.
11. Internal Audit Summer Internship Program – Protective Life Insurance Company
Location: Birmingham, AL (Corporate Office); Hybrid options may be available
Stipend: $21/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; limited spots
Dates: June 1 – July 31
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Actively enrolled undergraduates majoring in Accounting or Finance
This role allows you to support the company’s financial integrity through hands-on risk oversight and operational auditing. You will delve into essential business topics such as internal control frameworks, Sarbanes-Oxley compliance, and risk management strategies. During the program, you will test financial controls, participate in audit discussions across various business units, and analyze documentation to ensure process efficiency. A unique highlight includes personalized mentoring from senior auditors and exclusive networking sessions with executive leadership to help you build a professional circle. Ultimately, you will walk away with advanced analytical skills, technical proficiency in audit tools, and professional communication experience.
12. IGNITE – Operations Intern
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Stipend: $14.25–$18.75/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; typically 1–3 interns per summer
Dates: Typically 6 weeks (late May/early June through July)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Undergraduate students with 1–2 years of college coursework completed; minimum 3.0 GPA; pursuing degrees in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or Marketing
The IGNITE Operations Internship is a structured 12-week program that immerses you in the complexities of global logistics and supply chain management. You will explore critical business topics like data analytics, operational efficiency, and digital transformation through hands-on project ownership. During the term, you will build Power BI dashboards to track performance, analyze shipment data for process improvements, and develop automation tools for internal workflows. The internship also features the "Fuel Your Future" curriculum, which provides direct mentorship from senior leaders alongside professional development workshops. By the end, you will master essential skills in data visualization, analytical problem-solving, and professional communication.
13. College Financial Representative Internship Program – Northwestern Mutual
Location: Alabama: Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, Gadsden, Hoover, and Vestavia
Stipend: Learning and Development incentives up to $1,000 a month + Productivity Bonuses
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; typically, 10–20 interns
Dates: Summer: Late May/Early June – August; Fall: September – December; Spring: January – May
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate students who have U.S. work authorization
The Northwestern Mutual College Financial Representative internship puts you in control of your own financial planning business. You will dive into topics such as holistic wealth management, risk protection through insurance, and market development while learning to analyze diverse client needs. During the program, you will network to build a client base, conduct discovery meetings, and partner with veteran advisors to create tailored financial plans. A unique standout is that you function as a licensed professional from day one, earning performance-based commissions and bonuses alongside a base stipend. Through this experience, you will master professional communication, sales strategy, and business-building skills that are valuable in any future career path.
14. Alabama Governor’s Office Summer Internship Program
Location: Montgomery, Alabama
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; typically 15–25 students
Dates: June 2 – July 31
Application Deadline: March 13
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who have completed at least one semester of college and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
In this internship, you gain exposure to the executive branch of state government while working alongside staff in the Governor’s Office. Interns are placed in divisions such as communications, policy, appointments, or the Governor’s Office of Education and Workforce Transformation, depending on their interests and academic background. During the nine-week session, you will assist with staff-assigned projects and daily office activities, which provide insight into how government offices operate. The program also includes visits to state agencies in Montgomery, where you learn about their roles and operations within state government. Interns may have opportunities to attend public events where the governor is present and observe government processes from a professional setting.
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