Government Relations Graduate/MBA Intern, Summer 2026

Location: Arden Hills, MN or Virtual  
Duration: 10 weeks (June – August 2026) 
Relocation Assistance:  Available for eligible candidates.  

When you join Land O’Lakes, you become part of a Fortune 250 agribusiness and food production leader with more than 100 years of operations as a farmer- and member-owned cooperative. With business units spanning dairy foods, animal nutrition, and crop insights, you’ll contribute to purpose-driven initiatives that help bring food from farmers to fork—while supporting vibrant rural communities along the way.  

The Government Relations Graduate/MBA Intern will support the development of a landscape assessment for current and future strategic initiatives presented to the executive leadership team. Throughout the internship, the intern will collaborate with cross-functional partners on related projects, working closely with the Government Relations team, Rural Services leadership team, and external stakeholders. 

This intern will gain hands-on experience, participate in mentorship opportunities, expand their professional network, and engage directly with Land O’Lakes senior leaders in a dynamic, mission-driven environment. This role offers meaningful exposure to executive leadership and the opportunity to deliver a comprehensive strategy for future rural initiatives aligned with emerging state and federal policy priorities. The internship concludes with a formal presentation of findings and recommendations to business leaders. 

Experience-Education (Required)  

• Currently enrolled first-year MBA or Master’s (MPP, MPA, MS Ag Economics) student  

• Concentration in rural development, agriculture, strategy, policy, data analytics, economic or community development or general management  

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint 

Competencies-Skills (Required) 

• Analytical and Curious: Demonstrates intellectual curiosity and the ability to translate insights into business implications.   

• Results-Oriented: Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.  

• Strong Communicator: Confident and effective communicator with the ability to present to executive audiences.  

• Cross-Functional Collaborator: Able to navigate complex, cross-functional environments and influence diverse stakeholders.  

Competencies-Skills (Preferred) 

• Background or experience in rural development, agricultural policy, or economic or community development.   

• Prior related business experience preferred but not required 

• Experience in food or agribusiness sectors 

The hourly rate for this 10 week internship is $60.00/hour.  

Application Instructions  

• Resume and cover letter are required  

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis  

• Communication will be limited to candidates advancing in the selection process