Virginia has launched a new statewide program aimed at expanding paid internship opportunities for college students while helping employers build a future workforce.
The initiative, called InternshipsVA, will provide guidance, grants and recruitment support to Virginia businesses interested in creating paid internships. The state has committed $14.5 million annually to fund the program.
InternshipsVA is part of a broader effort to attract and retain workers in Virginia. Funded through the Commonwealth Innovative Internship Fund and Program, it offers financial incentives and technical assistance to employers, particularly small and mid-sized businesses.
Participating employers may qualify for grants covering up to 50% of undergraduate interns’ wages. The program also provides regional internship managers to assist with program design and recruiting, free internship postings through a partnership with Handshake, and training resources for employers.
Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced the program in Richmond alongside leaders from the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Virginia Business Higher Education Council and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.
“Virginia’s students need more hands-on opportunities to connect with real-world careers,” Spanberger said, adding that the program is designed to help students gain experience before graduation while encouraging them to stay in the state for work.
Employers seeking more information about InternshipsVA can visit vedp.org/internshipsva.
