SBDC Prepares Students for Small Business Internships

Preparing students for the realities of small business internships, The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center (SBDC) recently hosted Small Business Ready, an interactive Internship Readiness Training program for an interdisciplinary cohort of students. The program provided practical exposure to small business operations and guidance from experienced business consultants on the skills needed to succeed in real-world internship settings. 

Funded by a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission through its Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative, the program was developed by the SBDC in consultation with small business owners and career development staff. The curriculum introduces students to both foundational small business knowledge and essential professional skills required in internship roles. 

Held in the University’s newly opened Robert S. '68 and Marilyn A Weiss Hall, a space designed to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning, the program reinforced the SBDC’s commitment to connecting classroom learning with real-world business application. 

During the program, students strengthened their interpersonal communication, problem-solving and professional writing skills while developing an entrepreneurial mindset focused on creativity, confidence and adaptability. Informational sessions covered small business fundamentals, including marketing, accounting and finance, and cybersecurity basics, with learning reinforced through case studies and interactive group activities. 

The inaugural cohort of nine students represented a range of academic disciplines, including finance and education, and demonstrated a strong interest in professional growth and community engagement. Upon completion of the final case study, participants will have the opportunity to add a Small Business Ready certificate to their resumes and attend a networking reception with local small business owners. 

The Small Business Ready program expands on the SBDC’s successful Small Business Internship Initiative, which connects small businesses with students to provide meaningful experiential learning while supporting day-to-day business operations. The SBDC looks forward to continuing the program to help bridge the gap between student skill sets and the practical needs of small business owners.