Economic Development Intern

Economic Development Intern

Duration: 

Fall 2026 semester, with the potential for extension through Spring 2027 based on organizational needs, performance, and mutual agreement 

Schedule: 

Minimum 20 hours per week 

AEDP will work with the selected intern to develop a schedule that accommodates academic commitments. Work hours must generally fall within AEDP’s regular operating hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm. 

Compensation: 

Paid hourly internship; compensation is commensurate with the candidate’s education, experience, and internship responsibilities. Academic credit may be available, subject to the requirements and approval process of the student’s educational institution. 

Location: 

Hybrid, with a regular in-office presence at AEDP’s Alexandria, Virginia office (generally two days per week) and the opportunity for limited remote work 

Reporting Relationship 

Reports to AEDP’s Business Development Associate and works closely with AEDP’s Business Development team 

About Us

The Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) is a public-private partnership that serves to promote the City of Alexandria as a premier location for businesses and entrepreneurs. We capitalize on Alexandria’s many assets including prime development locations, proximity to Washington DC, small businesses, and history to further economic development. Our success results in increased city tax revenues, employment opportunities, and the overall enhancement of quality of life in Alexandria.

For more information, visit on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram

@AlexandriaEcon

Position Summary

AEDP is seeking a motivated undergraduate or graduate student to serve as its Economic Development Intern. The intern will gain practical, hands-on experience supporting AEDP’s business attraction, real estate, and market-intelligence work, while also gaining exposure to entrepreneurship, innovation, marketing, and other AEDP functions as appropriate. Interns will contribute to active projects and complete a capstone project aligned with AEDP’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis on local economic trends, business needs, and development opportunities.
• Support business attraction and real estate projects through market research, property and business data collection, CRM/data entry, presentation development, and other project-based assistance.
• Participate in internal meetings and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Maintain organized, accurate research files and project materials; handle non-public information with appropriate discretion.
• Attend professional development sessions and networking events.
• Complete and present a capstone project or final work product that reflects the intern’s contributions and learning during the internship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current junior, senior, or graduate student pursuing public policy, economics, urban planning, business, communications, real estate, or a related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong research, analytical, and presentation skills, with attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and collaborate effectively in a hybrid, project-based environment.
• Familiarity with Alexandria, Virginia, and its business community is preferred; candidates should also demonstrate a strong interest in learning about the city's economic landscape, assets, and opportunities.

Application Instructions

Submit your resume and a short statement (300 words or less) explaining your interest in economic development, the internship, and what you hope to gain from the experience. Applicants should indicate their availability, including anticipated weekly hours and ability to work in AEDP’s Alexandria office. Email materials to apply@alexandriaecon.org. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; AEDP is unable to provide visa sponsorship.

AEDP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable law.