Building up the tech talent pipeline for a job-ready workforce is critical for a thriving Miami tech ecosystem. At the same time, with more than 90% of Miami’s companies being small businesses, supporting the development of an emerging tech talent workforce for these companies is also crucial for Miami’s economic development and for combatting brain drain. Fortunately, Miami Dade College announced today a new comprehensive internship program that is a win-win for both its students and companies throughout the tech ecosystem.
The Miami Startup Ecosystem Internship Program, supported by a $1 million grant from the Blackstone Charitable Foundation and JPMorganChase, will enable more than 200 MDC students to secure paid 8- to 12-week internships at tech startups and scalable small businesses across Miami’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The two-year program will be managed by The Idea Center at Miami Dade College through Blackstone LaunchPad.
“Students with paid internships are twice as likely to land a job after graduation compared to non-interns – we’re doubling down on our commitment to their success and to Miami’s future “By supporting opportunities that empower students, we’re building a stronger, more resilient economy and helping Miami remain a hub for innovation and growth for years to come,” said Maura Pally, Executive Director of the Blackstone Charitable Foundation.
Using a co-funding model, MDC and participating employers will share the cost of student wages ($20/hour), making it easier for businesses to host interns while ensuring students gain meaningful, industry-relevant experience. The in program will be carried out in partnership with Tech Equity Miami, a consortium deploying $100 million over five years to help create and expand pathways into tech-based careers.
“A prosperous job market is the foundation of a strong economy, and by investing in the future of Miami’s workforce, the Miami Startup Ecosystem Internship Program will empower students with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market,” said Maria Escorcia, Southeast head of Global Philanthropy at JPMorganChase, which is an anchor member and funder of Tech Equity Miami. “We are excited to collaborate with Miami Dade College to help create pathways to employment in high-demand industries.”
Combined with the paid internship, Blackstone LaunchPad will elevate students’ internship experiences with a summer professional development series featuring expert-led workshops, speaker events, and networking opportunities, all designed to help students excel in their roles from day one and also build connections for their long-term success. By pairing professional development opportunities with real-world internships, the program bridges the gap between classroom learning and practical application, equipping a new generation of tech talent with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the workforce. .
The program also aligns with a larger collective impact initiative in Miami-Dade County that removes entry barriers into the tech industry and expands economic opportunities in the high-paying tech sector. It joins local initiatives such as Miami Tech Works, and organizations including CodePath, Break Through Tech, Career Source South Florida and others that are strongly focused on preparing emerging tech talent.
“This program is a shining example of how public-private partnerships can open doors and fuel the growth of our local innovation economy,” said Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, who participated in a community event at MDC’s Idea Center announcing the new internship program.
For its part, MDC serves over 125,000 students from more than 160 nationalities and has connected students with career-building opportunities through partnerships with organizations such as PortMiami, FIFA, and other global industry leaders. Now, the Miami Startup Ecosystem Internship Program extends hands-on learning opportunities to students interested in Miami’s growing startup and small business sectors.
“At Miami Dade College, we are committed to providing students with hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for the jobs of the future,” said Miami Dade College President Madeline Pumariega. “By leveraging public-private partnerships and a collective impact approach, we are helping students secure meaningful career opportunities that benefit both them and the businesses that drive Miami’s economy.”
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