The Shadow
RICHMOND, VA — Governor Abigail Spanberger today launched InternshipsVA, a new statewide program to help Virginia employers design and launch high-quality, paid internships for higher education students in Virginia. The Commonwealth has committed $14.5 million each year to support this program.
The Governor was joined by leaders of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), the Virginia Business Higher Education Council (VBHEC), and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) at a ceremony in Richmond.
“Virginia’s students need more hands-on opportunities to connect with real-world careers,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “InternshipsVA aims to make sure every student educated in the Commonwealth has the chance to begin and build a lasting career right here in Virginia. By partnering with businesses to give students real‑world experience before graduation, we’re strengthening a talent pipeline that will drive Virginia’s economic growth for years to come. Together, we’re working to secure Virginia’s position as the nation’s top state for talent.”
“InternshipsVA is a dynamic network of resources built to connect Virginia businesses with the Commonwealth’s next generation of talent,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. “InternshipsVA can match businesses with qualified, motivated interns who are ready to contribute from day one. By building these connections early, we’re helping ensure that the Commonwealth is the top destination for graduates when it comes time to launch their careers.”
“This initiative will create meaningful experiences for students to build real-world skills that prepare them not just for a job, but for life,” said Secretary of Education Jeffery Smith. “By expanding high-quality internship opportunities across Virginia, we are helping students connect what they learn in the classroom to practical experience and strengthening our workforce talent.”
