Business Development Intern

Organization: Greater Sandusky Partnership

Location: Sandusky, Ohio

Timeframe: May 27^th – July 24^th, 2026

About Greater Sandusky Partnership­
The Greater Sandusky Partnership (GSP) is a regional chamber and economic development organization serving the Greater Sandusky Bay Region. GSP promotes, engages and develops across business, talent and community to strengthen economic vitality.

Position Summary
GSP is seeking a motivated Business Development Intern to support summer membership and engagement initiatives under the Director of Member Services. This is a hands-on opportunity for a rising junior or senior (first- and second-year students also considered) to gain real-world experience in business communications and relationship building.

Key Responsibilities

Business Outreach & Growth

• Research prospective member businesses across Erie County and surrounding communities
• Assist with outreach campaigns (email, phone, and in-person support)
• Support new member onboarding and engagement efforts
• Help prepare membership proposals and renewal communications
• Track membership data and pipeline activity in GrowthZone CRM

Data & Market Research

• Conduct industry and competitor research
• Assist with membership revenue tracking and reporting
• Support business retention and expansion tracking initiatives
• Help analyze member segmentation and engagement trends

Events & Relationship Building

• Assist with GSP events including: Party at the Pier, Ribbon Cuttings and other programs
• Support event registration, follow-up communication, and sponsorship activation
• Represent GSP professionally at select summer events

Marketing & Communications Support

• Draft short member spotlight features
• Assist with social media content highlighting local businesses
• Update business directory listings

What You’ll Gain

• Real-world business development experience
• Exposure to regional economic development strategy
• CRM/CMS database management skills
• Professional networking with regional business leaders
• Experience working in a fast-paced, community-impact organization
• Participation in GSP’s Summer on Sandusky Bay Internship Program – click HERE to learn more about this unique, experiential program

Qualifications

• Junior or Senior preferred
• Currently enrolled in college (Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Administration, or related field preferred)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Self-motivated and comfortable initiating outreach
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel skills a plus)
• Interested in community and economic development

Schedule & Work Environment 

• Internship runs May 27-July 24, 2026
• Approximately 30 hours per week (flexible scheduling available)
• Some evening event coverage may be required
• Business casual dress typical; event days may vary
• Position based in-person in Sandusky, Ohio

Compensation

• Paid internship (hourly rate commensurate with experience)

Application Instructions
To apply for the position of Business Development Intern, please email a resume and cover letter to Ryan Dillard, Chief Operating Officer: rdillard@greatersandusky.com

Deadline for Applications

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning March 23, 2026, and will be accepted until position is filled. 

The Greater Sandusky Partnership is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees.