The programme is designed so that the interns are employed by individual organisations across the region and then come together as a group for a professional development and social programme. This allows the interns to experience and gain understanding of the range of clever businesses in the region while also enhancing their experience by sharing it with others.
The programme kicks off in late November with a welcome event for the interns and finishes in February with a closing event. Professional development sessions generally take place at host businesses every Friday afternoon and social events as and when suits the group.
There is also the option for interns to take part in a group project throughout the programme. This provides an opportunity to develop teamwork skills across organisations, innovation and leadership skills. A final decision on any group work is made based on participating organisations.
The programme is an initiative of the Nelson Tasman Innovation Neighbourhood and has been running since the summer of 2018-19.