Intern Delaware Enters a New Chapter

BY HELANA RODRIGUEZ AND MIKE EPPEHIMER

WHEN INTERN DELAWARE was first launched in 2019, it was built on a simple but powerful idea: if rising talent could experience everything Delaware has to offer — its people, its employers, its unique sense of community — they’d be more likely to stay. What began as a vision to connect college interns with the broader Delaware experience laid the foundation for one of the state’s most promising workforce development efforts.

That vision gained new momentum when Intern Delaware merged with The Partnership, the workforce development affiliate of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce. There, the program came to life and gained structure, identity, robust programming, and strong corporate partnerships.

Over five years, it grew rapidly, serving more than 500 interns from over 55 companies. These young professionals engaged with top decision-makers, explored in-demand career pathways, and participated in immersive experiences such as public speaking workshops, behind-the-scenes company tours, professional development sessions, and candid conversations with elected officials, including the governor.

These touchpoints helped employers deliver well-rounded internship experiences while enabling interns to see beyond their immediate roles and begin envisioning long-term careers — and lives — here in Delaware.

That investment matters. Research consistently shows that when employers provide professional development opportunities, employees are more likely to stay longer, feel fulfilled in their roles, and remain engaged in their work. For companies focused on retaining top talent, especially early-career professionals, programs like Intern Delaware aren’t just a bonus; they’re a strategic investment.

Now, as The Partnership evolves into the Delaware State Chamber Foundation, Intern Delaware is entering its next chapter — transitioning to Leadership Delaware, Inc. (LDI), where it will continue its mission with new energy and expanded possibility.

Intern Delaware has always been about more than just programming — it’s about belonging. That’s why we’re both so excited for what comes next. LDI is known for cultivating deep, lasting connections between its fellows and the broader business community. As Intern Delaware becomes part of the LDI family, the program will continue to connect young people with opportunity while helping employers build stronger talent pipelines and deepen workforce engagement across generations.

An impactful internship experience, paired with influential mentors and meaningful relationships, can shape not only a student’s career but the course of their life. When we invest in our future leaders at the launch of their careers, we are investing in a healthier, more vibrant future for our state. Over the past six years, the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce has thoughtfully stewarded this program. Now, with the addition of Leadership Delaware’s network, the initiative is expanding and building upon that foundation to continue supporting young professionals across the state.

At its core, this transition is about people: mentorship, connection, and creating lasting opportunities for Delaware’s next generation of leaders.

It’s a perfect fit, and we couldn’t be more thrilled that Intern Delaware has found its ideal home for the future.

The feedback from interns reinforces this impact:

“I entered the program knowing only the basics about my state. Now I can say with confidence, I have fallen in love with Delaware,” one intern shared. “The program has been an invaluable resource in growing my professional network and helping me forge connections with leaders in my state.”

As this transition unfolds, both the Delaware State Chamber Foundation and Leadership Delaware are excited to see what the future holds. Together, we envision a Delaware where every intern, every future leader, and every employer has access to the tools, networks, and support needed to thrive.

Intern Delaware is proof that when we invest in people, we invest in the future of the state.