General Application Qs
When does the Step Up youth application open and close?
The application opens January 2, 2025. Visit StepUpMpls.org to apply. The deadline is February 14 at 11:59 p.m.
Who can apply for Step Up?
Youth participants must meet the following requirements:
- Live in Minneapolis
- Be between the ages of 14-21 years old by June 23, 2025
- Not currently be in college (PSEO is okay)
- Be eligible to work in the U.S. by June 23, 2025
- Meet one of the following additional requirements:
- Family income guidelines
- Live with a disability
- Have an IEP or 504 plan
- Be an English language learner
- Be pregnant or parenting
- Be experiencing homelessness or high mobility
- Have been in the justice system
General Application Qs
I've applied for Step Up. When will I be contacted about my application?
You will receive a confirmation email that we've received your application. We will let you know by February 18 if you've been accepted into Step Up.
If you receive an email that says you are NOT eligible for Step Up and you believe an error was made, please contact us as soon as possible at StepUpInfo@minneapolismn.gov.
I was accepted to Step Up. What do I do next?
After your acceptance email, you will receive another email with information on next steps, access to the Step Up youth portal and details on mandatory online training, which begins February 20. Keep an eye out for that email!
Why am I not getting emails or text messages from Step Up?
It takes a few days to process all applications - thanks for your patience! Be sure to check your spam or junk folders. If you still don’t see any emails or texts from Step Up, contact us at StepUpInfo@minneapolismn.gov to make sure we have your correct contact information.
What's the difference between Step Up Level 1 and Level 2?
Step Up Level 1
Level 1 interns are 14-15 years old by June 23. They work up to 20 hours a week and earn $13.75 per hour. These internships are focused on building introductory work skills, working with a team in a professional environment, and learning what is expected of them at a workplace.
Step Up Level 2
Level 2 interns are 16-21 years old by June 23. They work 20-40 hours a week and earn at least $16.50 per hour. These internships are career-oriented, based on career interests and skills, and offer opportunities to work in 15 different career fields at small businesses, Fortune 500 companies, government agencies or nonprofits.
Step Up Training
Is Step Up training mandatory?
Yes. All Step Up applicants must complete training as well as the specific steps outlined in the youth portal to participate in the program. Please note that training is different for Level 1 participants, Level 2 participants and returning Level 2 participants. If you do not complete training, you will be dropped from the program.
Who do I contact if I need help with training?
If you need help with Step Up training, please email StepUp@ppl-inc.org. You will be assigned a trainer who reach out via email or text to help you.
Can I get elective high school credit for doing Step Up?
First time Level 2 participants can earn 0.25 elective credit by completing the Step Up training.
Internships Pathway
How do I get placed into a Step Up internship?
You must complete all training and other mandatory steps to be eligible for an internship. Step Up matches each participant by carefully assessing the fit of Step Up internship positions to youth interests, skills, availability and ability to get to the job site. Internships are not guaranteed.
Are internships guaranteed?
Internships are not guaranteed. However, each year we successfully match the majority of youth who complete all mandatory steps to be eligible for an internship. If you complete your steps and are not matched, we will offer the opportunity to participate in our paid online Career Exploration Program.