Inclusively building the pipeline of Michigan’s startup ecosystem

Our Emerging Talent Internship Program supports underrepresented students in gaining exposure to entrepreneurship, startup, and tech related professional experiences. For the summer of 2025 we are subsidizing MFF Member companies to work underrepresented students that are recruited statewide by MFF, or found directly by the company.  Startups will receive a subsidy to cover intern costs for part-time, full-time, or project-based work.

Program goals include:

1. Create High-Quality Entryways for Underrepresented Students in Tech:
   • Offer students in postsecondary college or training programs (certification & bootcamp) a distinctive paid learning experience.
   • Enhance students’ professional competencies, expand their networks, and provide exposure to founders and Michigan’s rapidly expanding startup ecosystem.
2. Foster Access to All Interested in Tech:
   • Facilitate growth opportunities for tech and startup companies to fortify comprehensive and inclusive talent initiatives through collaborative spaces and workshops.
   • Make inroads into talent pipelines across the state that bolster the growth of innovation in Michigan.

Introducing the 2025 class of Emerging Talent Interns! This year’s impressive interns come from all corners of Michigan representing 10 colleges and universities, and six counties across the upper and lower peninsulas. The summer is heating up as these 20 students eagerly plunge into the state’s thriving startup ecosystem at 12 fast-paced companies working on everything from app design to marketing campaigns, to robotics engineering. Now in its fifth year, this is our largest intern class yet!

MFF startups and tech companies are committed to making Michigan the most successful, inclusive, and community-driven startup ecosystem in the country. Hiring organizations participate in equity-centered workshops and are offered 1-1 consultation with an inclusive talent expert. We’re grateful for all of this year’s participating companies! The following companies have hired Interns through the Emerging Talent Program this summer:

Any program questions? Connect with us at [email protected].