The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) Summer Internship Program is an intensive eight-week professional development experience designed to cultivate the next generation of economic development professionals. This program provides emerging talent with hands-on experience in urban economic development, community-centered strategy, and public-private partnerships while contributing to Baltimore's economic transformation.

As Baltimore's dedicated economic development agency, BDC is committed to creating pathways for local talent to enter the field of economic development. Through the "Baltimore Together" comprehensive economic development strategy, we are building an inclusive economy that serves all of Baltimore's residents and businesses. This internship program is a key component of that commitment.

The program combines structured learning experiences with meaningful project work, ensuring interns gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in economic development.

The capstone project is the centerpiece of the internship experience. Each intern (or intern team) will tackle a real challenge facing BDC or Baltimore's economic development landscape. Projects will be selected based on current organizational priorities and intern interests.

The program has an 8-week curriculum:

• Weeks 1 - 2: Orientation & Foundation
• Weeks 3 - 4: Deep Dive & Project Launch
• Weeks 5 - 6: Applied Learning & Project Development
• Weeks 7 - 8: Capstone Completion & Presentation

The BDC Summer Internship Program is open to candidates who meet one of the following criteria:

• Current Graduate Students at Baltimore City Business Schools: Students currently enrolled in MBA, MPA, Master's in Finance, Master's in Real Estate, or related graduate programs at institutions including Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, University of Baltimore Merrick School of Business, Morgan State Graves School of Business, Loyola University Maryland Sellinger School of Business, or University of Maryland Baltimore.
• Graduating Seniors from Baltimore City: College seniors (graduating by May 2026 or December 2026) who are residents of Baltimore City, studying business, economics, urban planning, public policy, finance, real estate, or related fields at any accredited institution.
• Graduate Students from Baltimore City: Current graduate students who are Baltimore City residents, enrolled in business, economics, urban planning, public policy, finance, real estate, or related programs at any accredited institution.

Additional Requirements:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA (or equivalent)
• Authorization to work in the United States
• Commitment to full-time participation for the 8-week program duration
• Demonstrated interest in economic development, community investment, or urban revitalization

Required Materials

• Resume/CV highlighting relevant academic work, professional experience, and community involvement
• Cover Letter (500 words max) addressing your interest in economic development and what you hope to contribute to Baltimore
• Unofficial Academic Transcript
• Two Professional or Academic References (name, title, email, phone)
• Proof of Eligibility: Current enrollment verification

Learn more and apply on BDC's website.

Applications will be evaluated holistically based on:

• Academic achievement and intellectual curiosity
• Demonstrated commitment to Baltimore and/or community-centered work
• Relevant skills and experiences (research, analysis, community engagement, project management)
• Communication skills and professional presentation
• Alignment with BDC's mission of inclusive economic development

Professional Development Benefits

• Mentorship from BDC senior leadership and experienced economic development professionals
• Networking opportunities with Baltimore business leaders, city officials, and community stakeholders
• Professional development workshops (public speaking, project management, data analysis)
• Letter of recommendation upon successful program completion
• Potential for future employment consideration at BDC or partner organizations

For questions about the Summer Internship Program, please contact:

Baltimore Development Corporation

Attn: Summer Internship Program

36 South Charles Street, Suite 1600

Baltimore, MD 21201

Email: internships@baltimoredevelopment.com

Phone: (410) 837-9305

The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) is the economic development agency for the City of Baltimore. Our mission is to grow the city’s economy in an inclusive manner by retaining, expanding and attracting businesses and promoting investment, thereby increasing career opportunities for residents.