Global Entrepreneur in Residence Program Intern, West Michigan

Request for applicants | January 2025

About Global Detroit

Global Detroit is a regional economic and community development organization. We develop and implement immigrant-inclusive strategies to drive the growth, revitalization and broadly shared prosperity of Michigan. Global Detroit is a nationally recognized leader in building inclusive economic development strategies that begin with immigrant families and entrepreneurs, as well as international students and global talent, and lead to lasting change for our region. Cities and regions that are welcoming to immigrants are vibrant. They have strong neighborhoods, competitive companies, successful small businesses, and a rich and diverse cultural life. By intentionally including immigrants in our economic development strategies, we aim to spark growth, revitalization and sustained prosperity in Detroit and throughout Southeast Michigan.

Joining the Global Detroit Team

We are a group of thinkers and doers from Detroit and all over the world. We work strategically to build an equitable economy where immigrants are valued and meaningfully included. As a member of the Global Detroit team, you will have a chance to flex your creative muscles, step outside of what is expected and find new solutions to old problems. We welcome energetic and innovative thought leaders to apply!

Our Ethos

Our shared belief is that we can create an equitable economy by taking a strategic approach and ensuring that immigrants are valued and fully integrated. Being part of the Global Detroit team means embracing creativity, challenging norms, and finding innovative solutions to longstanding issues.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Global Detroit, we recognize the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). We are committed to cultivating an inclusive culture throughout our organization and a team with the skills needed to advance our mission.

About the Global Entrepreneur in Residence Program

The Global Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (Global EIR) program at Global Detroit is an innovative initiative designed to support immigrant entrepreneurs in launching and scaling their startups in the United States, particularly in Michigan. By partnering with universities and community organizations, the program provides a pathway for international founders to secure visas, access mentorship, and connect with Michigan’s innovation ecosystem. Through resources such as networking, funding guidance, and immigration solutions, the program integrates immigrant entrepreneurs into the local business community, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, job creation, and regional economic growth. Focused on inclusivity, Global EIR also seeks to attract underrepresented communities and high-potential startups in key technology sectors, positioning Michigan as a hub for global innovation.

Position Overview

Global Detroit is hiring one part-time intern for the Global EIR program for West Michigan programs. The internship will begin once a suitable candidate is identified and ends the week of April 21, 2025. The internship will be customized towards being flexible concerning the ideal candidate’s class and examination schedules. Pending a midterm review and availability, there will be a potential opportunity to extend the internship past April 2025.

Responsibilities

Administrative Support

Schedule and coordinate meetings with program applicants and those seeking information about the program.

Track application statuses and ensure timely follow-ups with applicants and stakeholders.

Assist with drafting emails, meeting agendas, and notes for various program activities.

2025 Pitch Competition Event Planning and Implementation

Support planning for the International Pitch Competition in spring 2025, including event logistics, venue coordination, and participant outreach.

Coordinate marketing and communication efforts for the competition, such as email campaigns and social media updates. Assist in creating promotional materials and ensuring timely dissemination.

Outcomes Analysis and Reporting

Collect and analyze data related to program outcomes, including participant feedback and program impact metrics.

Support the creation of reports and presentations for stakeholders, summarizing achievements, challenges, and insights.

Research and Strategy Support

Research domestic and international incubator and accelerator ecosystems as well as other programs to identify potential new partners for the program.

Assist in mapping out guest speakers for upcoming events and aligning topics with program goals/priorities/objectives.

Communications and Outreach

Draft social media posts, newsletters, and press releases to highlight program milestones and success stories as required.

Other Special Projects and Assignments

Work on other special projects and assignments as may arise during the internship.

Required Skills and Experience

A highly organized and detail-oriented individual with a passion for fostering collaboration and efficiency.
Possess exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, adept at building rapport and fostering a positive team environment.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and comfortable utilizing or learning collaborative platforms like Google Drive.
Thrive in a dynamic environment, demonstrating initiative and the ability to manage multiple tasks with focus and precision.
A team player with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, embracing the MaGP principles of shared success.

Desired Skills and Experience

Students interested in immigration, law, business, and entrepreneurship are particularly encouraged to apply.
Third-year or higher undergraduate students are welcome to apply and graduate students desired.
Previous experience with Google Workspace and Notion is a plus, but not required.

Salary and Benefits

This is a part-time (10 hours/week) stipend position. The stipend will be $3,000 per semester. At 10 hours/week over 16 weeks, the $3,000 stipend works out to roughly $18.75/hour. The position can be hybrid, with some in-person work required but flexibility for most of the hours. Global Detroit’s West Michigan office is located in Grand Rapids at the Grand Rapids Chamber offices (50 Monroe Ave NW #150, Grand Rapids, MI 49503).

Monthly Payment Structure
Professional Development and Training Opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or any other protected status.

Additional Information

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. For additional information on Global Detroit visit www.globaldetroitmi.org. If you have questions, please contact Ashleigh Stagg at ashleigh@globaldetroitmi.org.

Required Writing Sample:

To be considered for this role, all candidates must address in their cover letter the following writing sample topic.

Prompt:
Global Detroit emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in its mission and operations. Reflecting on this, please write a response addressing the following:

Personal Perspective: Describe your understanding of DEIB and why it is critical in fostering inclusive economic development, especially in the context of immigrant communities.
Program Relevance: How would you integrate DEIB principles into the Global Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) program? Consider areas such as outreach, event planning, mentorship, or participant engagement.
Scenario-Based Application: Imagine a scenario where a program applicant expresses concerns about feeling excluded due to cultural or language barriers. How would you address their concerns and ensure they feel welcomed and valued within the program?

Length: 300–500 words

Evaluation Criteria:

Understanding of DEIB principles and their application.
Ability to connect DEIB concepts to program goals.
Creativity and thoughtfulness in addressing challenges.
Clarity, organization, and professional tone in writing.

To Apply

Apply here!