The Trade and Investment department's primary mission is to help Canadian companies market their products and/or services in our geographical territory of responsibility, which includes Upstate New York, Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. We accomplish this by providing a wide range of services, including counseling, market research and organizing and managing trade and investment promotional events.
Intern's Title
Trade and Investment Research Intern
Main Project Responsibilities
50 percent—Conduct market research primarily in information technology, telecommunications, advance manufacturing, life science and bio agriculture sectors in response to specific Canadian company inquiries requesting information on market opportunities, distribution channels, trade standards and government regulations, customer base, customs and immigration. Conduct secondary research of databases, printed directories, Internet sites and library resources. Conduct primary research interviewing industry experts in trade associations, government agencies and potential customers.
20 percent—Organize and participate in the following:
Trade shows
Seminars on exporting and setting up a business in New York State
Conferences with U.S. and Canadian companies on joint ventures
Missions to Canadian companies of potential U.S. buyers
Missions from Canada to potential U.S. customers
20 percent—Conduct mini market studies for specific products or services
10 percent—Other projects and tasks to be assigned
Learning Objectives
Every attempt is made to let the student focus on a specific area of interest that matches the variety of activities within the department as detailed below
Interns have a unique opportunity to apply skills learned in most core curriculums in a global setting, and gain experience in a broad spectrum of activities that will allow them to identify areas of employment interest
Students begin the program with ample orientation, are supervised by a trade commissioner and supported by a business development officer throughout the semester
Desired Skills and Knowledge
Education: BS in Business Administration - Junior or Senior level standing
Concentration(s) of study: International Business
Technical Skills: Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Access)
Proficient usage of computer software, hardware and Internet
Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills essential
Capable of conducting thorough and accurate research
Strong ability to extrapolate important information and report summaries of data
Knowledge of investments practices helpful but not necessary
Logistics
Intern will work 10-15 hours per week. Schedule and duration of the position are flexible. 150 or more credit hours performed over the duration of the internship.
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