Intern, Economic Competitiveness
Company Summary
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is a state authority that promotes economic development and growth across the Commonwealth. VEDP serves both state policymakers and businesses by providing research, programs, and strategic insights to support economic growth. Internships with VEDP provide students the opportunity to learn about the field of economic development and VEDP’s role in fostering good jobs for all Virginians.
Position Summary
The Economic Competitiveness division develops strategies and legislative proposals to make Virginia a more attractive state in which to do business. The team does this through qualitative and quantitative analysis of the key factors that businesses look for when deciding where to locate and how Virginia compares to other states in these key factors. The division is looking for up to two interns during the summer of 2023 (10 weeks). This energetic, self-starting individual is seeking on-the-job experience in economics, public policy, or business and will support a variety of projects across government and business. The selected intern(s) will gain valuable experience working alongside a dedicated team and will play a critical supporting role in fulfilling the team’s primary responsibilities. The responsibilities of the intern may vary based on the applicant’s interest and experience, as well as the particular research areas the team is pursuing at the time.
Duties:
- Research policies and evaluate their potential benefit to Virginia by reading, summarizing, and synthesizing relevant literature
- Analyze quantitative data and present data analysis in a visually compelling format
- Assist in designing and developing reports for economic development stakeholders
- Engage with executive staff, policymakers, and stakeholders on relevant research, including presenting research or updates on key projects
- Assist in other project-related tasks as needed
Knowledge and Skills Required:
- Interest in economics, business, public policy, or state government
- Excellent planning, organizational, and communication skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office – primarily PowerPoint and Word
- Basic or advanced data analysis experience with Excel
- Previous research and data experience (preferred, but not required)
The ideal intern excels in their academic studies while also developing leadership experience on campus and in the community. This individual has a high degree of intellectual curiosity, is a self-starter with the ability to learn new topics and concepts quickly, and desires to make the world a better place. Pursuit of a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in social science (economics, public policy, or political science), mathematics, data analytics, business, accounting, or a related field is preferred.
This position is located in our Richmond office and will be up to a 40 hour per week commitment (flexible).
All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers. A valid driver’s license is required. Salary: Undergrad students $13/hr.; Graduate students $15/hr. Application deadline: March 31, 2023.
EOE