Ohio Export Internship Program Empowers Future Business Leaders

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Fifty-eight students from six universities across Ohio recently completed summer internships with some of the state’s most innovative companies through the Ohio Export Internship Program.

“Through the Ohio Export Internship program, the Ohio Department of Development is empowering the next generation of Ohio’s workforce by providing opportunities, guidance and real-world experience,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “We are ensuring our state remains competitive, innovative and resilient, and this program shows what we can achieve when we invest in our young talent.”

Over its 13 years, the program has facilitated 524 student-business matches, resulting in 174 internship extensions and 95 full-time job offers. Ohio companies have expanded into 450 new international markets through the program’s impact.

The students, having completed export-focused coursework, were matched with businesses based on their skills and interests for 12-week internships designed to provide hands-on experience in global trade. This year’s partner universities included The Ohio State University, Youngstown State University, Cleveland State University, the University of Dayton, Bowling Green State University and Ohio University.

Throughout the summer, businesses worked closely with interns to develop new export strategies and expand into international markets. Companies ranged from a premium pet food manufacturer and a leader in ignition control systems to a producer of fire training systems. Participating businesses received up to 50 percent reimbursement for intern wages, while students were paid full-time wages as employees.

Applications are now open for companies interested in participating in the program. Companies participating in the program must provide the following:

• Strategic commitment to grow an export market.
• Existing or planned export budget.
• Intern workload focused on exporting.
• Managerial guidance for the intern.
• Compensation for internship position – full-time wages as an employee (W-2) for 12 weeks over the summer.
• Benefits and paid time off are not required, but companies must comply with federal, state and local laws.
• Participation in program evaluation.

For more information and to apply, click HERE.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.