The International Trade Centre (ITC) is offering a fully immersive Tech and Services Internship in Geneva, Switzerland, providing emerging professionals with a unique opportunity to engage with international trade, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This internship is designed for students or recent graduates interested in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, while gaining practical experience in project management, research, and international development.

About the Internship

The ITC Tech and Services Internship runs for 4 to 6 months, starting 1 May 2026. Interns will work under the guidance of the ITC’s Sector and Enterprise Competitiveness Section (SEC), particularly within the Tech and Services team. This team implements projects that support SMEs and startups, helping them grow, access new markets, and strengthen their operational ecosystems.

Interns will contribute to ITC’s FastTrackTech methodology, assisting in the development of tools and resources aimed at fostering innovation in services sectors such as IT/BPO, logistics, tourism, and other high-potential markets. This role offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in program design, toolkit development, and collaboration with stakeholders across different regions.

Why This Internship Matters

SMEs and startups are key drivers of economic growth and job creation in emerging markets. By supporting these enterprises, the internship contributes to global development objectives, helping businesses scale sustainably, strengthen local economies, and generate employment opportunities.

The internship also provides a window into international development operations within the UN system, allowing participants to understand the structure, goals, and processes of global trade and sector-specific programmes. For aspiring professionals in international business, development, or technology, this experience builds both professional competence and a global perspective on economic development.

What Interns Will Gain

The internship offers multiple professional and personal development benefits:

Project Management Skills: Interns assist in implementing and testing ITC methodologies, organize pilot activities, and support reporting and monitoring frameworks.
Research and Sector Analysis: Conduct market research, map priority service sectors, and prepare case studies and briefing materials for global projects.
Global Partnerships: Engage with public and private stakeholders to strengthen innovation ecosystems and develop collaborative solutions for SMEs.
Communication and Reporting Experience: Support the production of reports, toolkits, digital communications, and promotional materials to disseminate project outcomes.

These experiences help interns build a strong foundation for careers in international trade, development, consulting, or technology-focused entrepreneurship.

Who Can Apply

This internship is open to candidates who meet one of the following criteria:

Currently enrolled in a graduate program (second university degree or higher)
Enrolled in the final year of a bachelor’s degree program
Graduated with a university degree within the past year

Candidates should have a strong interest in international trade, services sector development, technology, and innovation. Relevant studies may include business, international trade, development, or related fields. Applicants should also possess strong communication, analytical, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and social media. Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of French or Spanish is an advantage.

Location and Duration

The internship is based at ITC Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and lasts 4 to 6 months, starting 1 May 2026. Interns are expected to manage their own living and travel arrangements, including visa and accommodation requirements. A subsistence allowance will be provided.

Application Process and Deadline

Applicants must submit their application through the official United Nations Careers portal. The deadline to apply is 13 April 2026. Candidates should prepare a strong application highlighting relevant academic, research, or professional experiences, as well as their interest in supporting SMEs, technology, and services sector development.

Learn More and Apply on the official ITC job posting.

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