SME Ambition Internship Programme

Small businesses and charities across Sheffield and the surrounding area can now apply for the latest round of the SME Ambition Internship Programme, delivered by the University of Sheffield. The programme provides a £1,000 grant to help organisations host a student intern for a minimum of 70 hours, giving employers access to fresh talent while supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds.

The scheme is open to SMEs with fewer than 250 employees and an annual turnover below £50 million, as well as charities. Eligible organisations can use the internship to support a wide range of projects, including marketing campaigns, business research, software development, e-commerce improvements, environmental projects and community outreach initiatives. Previous internships have helped organisations redesign online shops, develop engineering software interfaces, research business plans and deliver marketing and charity outreach projects.

The programme aims to provide valuable professional experience for students while helping employers tackle projects that may otherwise be difficult to resource. Funding can be used towards intern wages and associated employment costs, with organisations responsible for employing the student and managing payroll requirements.

Applications must be submitted by 23 September 2026, with successful organisations expected to hear the outcome by early October. Student vacancies will be advertised from October, with internships able to run through to 31 March 2027.

For charities and small businesses looking to access new skills, develop future talent and receive support for an important project, the SME Ambition Internship Programme offers an excellent opportunity to benefit from funded student expertise while making a positive impact on student career development.

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