International Business & Development Internship
A groundbreaking program that connects students with microbusinesses in the developing world, fostering meaningful impact and global collaboration.
About the Business & Development Internship
The International Business & Development Internship Program is a groundbreaking program that connects students with microbusinesses in the developing world, fostering meaningful impact and global collaboration. Leadership Initiatives partners with small business owners in Bauchi, Nigeria, who live on less than $1.90 daily, have limited business experience, and struggle to meet their families' basic needs.
Through this program, student interns are paired with a business partner and a dedicated Project Coordinator to address critical challenges at the grassroots level. Over seven months, interns collaborate directly with entrepreneurs to develop innovative, income-generating solutions that promote food security, women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, personal care, and mobility.
Key Components
Interns gain hands-on experience in business start-ups, project management, and social development while building skills in business ethics and problem-solving. This immersive program provides a unique opportunity to witness how innovation and collaboration can transform lives and support vulnerable populations, offering students a deeper understanding of global entrepreneurship and social responsibility.
Interns engage directly with microbusiness owners to understand their personal stories, business goals, and challenges. This foundational relationship ensures that solutions are meaningful and tailored to the partner’s specific needs, creating a sense of mutual respect and trust.
Improve Financial Literacy
Through practical workshops and one-on-one sessions, interns help business partners implement effective financial management practices. By introducing tools for financial tracking and literacy, interns empower partners to make informed decisions and sustain long-term growth.
Create a Brand Identity
Interns collaborate with business owners to design compelling logos and develop a cohesive brand identity that aligns with the partner’s vision. This creative process helps businesses stand out in the marketplace and builds a recognizable image for their customers.
Develop Marketing Materials
Interns design professional marketing materials such as signs, flyers, and business cards, helping to increase the visibility and reach of their partner businesses. These materials are tailored to the local community’s needs and preferences, enhancing engagement and potential sales.
Write Grant Proposals
One of the program’s most impactful aspects is grant writing. Interns work with their business partners to identify critical needs and draft proposals to secure funding. These grants address immediate business challenges and create opportunities for expansion and improvement.
Develop Community Projects
Using insights from their partnerships, interns conceptualize sustainable community development initiatives. These projects address broader societal needs and are funded through the internship’s fundraising efforts, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
A Once In A Lifetime Opportunity
The International Business Internship Program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to make a tangible difference in the lives of others while gaining invaluable skills and experience. By participating, interns not only help businesses thrive but also play a pivotal role in strengthening communities in Bauchi, Nigeria.
