Kirkwood Community College

Internships > Small Business Owner - Entrepreneur Intern

Small Business Owner - Entrepreneur Intern

Small Business Owner/Entrepreneur Intern

Overview:
This internship introduces high school students to the world of entrepreneurship and small business management. Interns will observe and assist business owners as they run daily operations, manage finances, and interact with customers. The experience provides insight into leadership, problem-solving, and the challenges and rewards of owning a business.

Key Responsibilities May Include:

  • Shadow small business owners during daily operations, meetings, and customer interactions
  • Assist with tasks such as organizing inventory, preparing documents, updating records, or supporting marketing efforts
  • Observe how owners make decisions, manage finances, and develop business strategies
  • Learn about customer service, business planning, and operational workflows
  • Gain exposure to teamwork, professional communication, and entrepreneurial problem-solving
  • Completing assignments, reflection journals, or internship workbook entries as required by the program

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the role of a small business owner in managing and growing a business
  • Learn about business operations, finance, marketing, and customer relations
  • Gain awareness of leadership, decision-making, and professional responsibility
  • Develop observation, organizational, and communication skills
  • Explore career and educational pathways in entrepreneurship, business management, or marketing

Preferred Skills/Interests:

  • Interest in business, leadership, or entrepreneurship
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Creativity, problem-solving, and reliability
  • Professionalism and willingness to learn

Additional Information:

  • Interns will primarily observe and assist with support tasks; they will not make independent business decisions
  • Compliance with workplace policies, confidentiality, and professional conduct is required
  • Some placements may involve flexible hours or participation in business events or customer interactions

 

Notice on Internship Opportunities

Please note that internship opportunities will vary by host site and county.

  • Not all career areas or placements will be available in every location.
  • Host sites may have different requirements, schedules, responsibilities.
  • Opportunities depend on local partnerships, availability, and community resources.

Students are encouraged to remain flexible and open to a variety of learning experiences. Each internship is designed to provide valuable workplace skills, career exploration, and professional growth - regardless of the specific placement.

 

THIS DESCRIPTION DOES NOT LIST ALL DUTIES. INTERN MAY BE ASKED TO PERFORM OTHER DUTIES BY THE STAFF OR SUPERVISOR. INTERN WILL BE EVALUATED ON PERFORMANCE OF THE PROJECTS LISTED AS WELL AS INTERACTION WITH EMPLOYEES AND CLIENTS. ON-SITE HOURS WILL BE NEGOTIATED WITH EACH CANDIDATE.

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS, INCLUDING HARASSMENT, SHOULD BE REVIEWED WITH THE HOST.




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