Summary:
NYCEDC launches RFP for Startup and VC Internship Programs to support tech growth in NYC.
Goal of at least 150 placements in the NYC Startup Internship and 50 placements in the NYC Venture Capital Internship.
Programs aim to connect diverse students, particularly from CUNY, to career pathways in tech.
Previous programs resulted in 30% of participants landing their first internships and many securing further employment.
NYCEDC's initiatives focus on improving equity and diversity in the tech sector.
Internship Programs Advance the Adams’ Administration Efforts to Build a More Equitable and Inclusive Tech Sector in New York City
The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has launched a Request for Proposal (RFP) to find operators for the New York City Startup and Venture Capital (VC) Internship Programs. These two workforce development initiatives aim to support tech-enabled startups and VC firms in NYC, offering students, particularly those from CUNY, essential resources, professional development, and training for career success.
Program Goals
The RFP seeks qualified organizations to manage annual cohorts of the internship programs, with student placements starting in the Summer of 2025. Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer emphasized the need to connect young people from diverse backgrounds to career pathways in the tech industry, which is vital for the sector's growth.
Key Features of the Programs
- NYC Startup Internship Program: Aims for at least 150 total placements within the first two cycles, placing students in paid internships at local tech-enabled startups.
- NYC Venture Capital Internship Program: Targets 50 total placements in paid internships at NYC-based venture capital firms.
Both programs will include pre-internship training and professional development to ensure successful internship experiences. Previous iterations of the Startup Internship Program enabled 166 CUNY students to gain valuable work experience, with many securing ongoing positions or further education opportunities.
Commitment to Diversity
The NYCEDC's efforts to improve equity in tech and venture capital are crucial, as Black and Latinx workers currently represent only 21% of NYC's tech talent. The organization aims to change this through initiatives that support diverse entrepreneurship and equitable career pathways.
For more information, check the NYCEDC RFP page. An information session is scheduled for September 30th, 2024, with a proposal deadline of October 17th, 2024.
About NYCEDC
NYCEDC is a nonprofit organization focused on creating a vibrant, inclusive, and competitive economy for all New Yorkers, emphasizing innovative sectors and sustainable community development.
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