Pictured: Last year's SPARK: Intern Summit. Photo courtesy of Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

Internships play a crucial role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow. As businesses seek fresh talent and innovative ideas, students and young professionals search for meaningful experiences that will prepare them for successful careers. That’s why the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with New College Florida, is excited to host the 2nd annual SPARK: Intern Summit this June—an event dedicated to fostering connections between local businesses and aspiring young professionals.

For companies, hosting an intern is not just an act of goodwill—it’s a strategic investment. Interns bring new perspectives, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn that can invigorate an organization. Businesses that engage with interns gain access to emerging talent, often identifying future full-time employees through these programs. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), nearly 70% of interns receive job offers from the organizations where they interned. This highlights the critical role internships play in talent acquisition.

Beyond recruitment, internships allow businesses to test-drive potential employees in real-world scenarios. They provide an opportunity to train and mentor young professionals, instilling the company’s values and work culture early on. Furthermore, interns often bring in fresh digital skills and technological insights that can benefit the company’s operations. For small businesses and startups, interns can be an asset by contributing to projects, conducting market research, or assisting with social media and customer engagement.

From an intern’s perspective, the benefits are equally significant. Internships serve as a bridge between academic learning and professional application. They allow students to gain hands-on experience, develop industry-specific skills, and build a network of professional contacts. Additionally, internships help individuals refine their career paths by exposing them to different roles and workplace environments. This clarity is invaluable, as it enables young professionals to make informed career decisions before entering the full-time workforce.

Employers today seek candidates with relevant experience, and internships provide a competitive edge in the job market. Many students who participate in an internship, graduate with not just theoretical knowledge, but practical experience that demonstrates their readiness for the workplace. Moreover, the soft skills developed during an internship—communication, teamwork, problem-solving—are essential for long-term career success and what employers are looking for.

We hope that you’ll share this exciting event and join us on Wednesday, June 25 at the SPARK: Intern Summit and be part of the movement that shapes the future of Sarasota’s professional landscape. To learn more about this event and our programs at the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, visit our website at www.sarasotachamber.com

Heather Kasten is President/CEO for the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured: Last year's SPARK: Intern Summit. Photo courtesy of Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.