Consulting, Government Projects and Trade Missions Internship (Start Date: January 2027)

Note to applicants: Interns in the Consulting department of our organization will work out of the GACC Midwest office in downtown Chicago. As such, applicants must either currently reside in the Greater Chicago Area or be available for relocation before the start date of the internship.

Compensation: $3000/month Duration: 9-12 months

Who we are

The mission of the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest) is to promote and assist bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States. All internships offer the opportunity to gain work experience in a truly bilingual and bicultural environment, with support from colleagues that can help speed the learning curve of understanding intercultural differences and nuances. Read more about our organization at www.gaccmidwest.org.

As part of the Consulting department, our Government Project and Trade Missions Team's initiatives facilitate technological and business knowledge exchanges in various fields between industry experts, policy makers, and academia in Germany and the US through various industry events and initiatives. For detailed information on the efforts of the Government Project team and general transatlantic initiatives as well as an overview of current projects, please visit: https://www.gaccmidwest.org/us/delegation-trips

What does this internship entail?

• Support with project management, planning, and implementing both virtual & in-person business delegation programs fostering German American collaboration in industries such as advanced manufacturing, automotive, agtech, renewable energy und sustainability
• Participate in event and conference planning and implementation for the delegations
• Research & identification of and outreach to potential business partners in the US (sales and distribution partners, potential clients, network partners etc.) as well as coordination and facilitation of B2B meetings
• Primary and secondary research to gather market insights for client companies
• Aid in the research, writing and potential publication of market analyses
• Support in answering initial inquiries from German companies on topics such as import and export regulations and product certification in the US as well as general questions on US market entry as part of the public function of the German American Chamber of Commerce

Who are we looking for?

• High-level proficiency in the English language as well as advanced German language skills a plus
• Strong research and communication skills (verbal and written) with attention to detail and a strong work ethic
• Strong understanding of fundamental business concepts
• Strong interest in learning more about new technology and its applications and a desire to assist in promoting these new technologies in the U.S. market
• A great interest in working with an international team and a high level of motivation to help GACC Midwest accomplish its mission

Why join GACC Midwest?

Our organization, GACC Midwest, strives to provide our interns with an environment that allows them to succeed in every aspect of their role. Our interns have the opportunity to gain the ability to put new things into practice and network and meet key members in our extensive membership base while learning more about German American business efforts happening day in and day out.

With a beautiful state-of-the-art office space in the heart of the city overlooking Millennium Park, interns are able to easily navigate throughout Downtown Chicago and experience the rich culture the city has to offer – such as complimentary German lessons offered by the Goethe Institute specifically for our employees. Within our office building, all GACC Midwest team members have access to the fitness center with free classes being offered regularly as well as general community events as planned by the building staff.

Testimonials:

“Having studied German and International Relations for my bachelors, I was looking for an opportunity to put my educational background into practice. My time at GACC Midwest was instrumental to helping me improve my German in a professional, career-focused context, while allowing me to continue pursuing my interests in international trade, diplomacy, and cooperation.

Interning at GACC Midwest's Government Projects & Trade Missions team marked a very memorable kickoff to my professional career. I had the chance to participate in delegations, attend networking events, and even run my own projects. If you just graduated and are looking for a hands-on experience to jumpstart your career, then I strongly recommend that you apply!”

Laurent L., Former Government Projects & Trade Missions Intern

“After a smooth and very transparent application process I was able to apply for my J-1 visa which allowed me to return to the US for a full year. I especially felt supported when it comes to the formalities associated to the J-1 visa process which in my opinion gives one a strong reasoning to get your visa processed through GACC Midwest. After 10 months of my internship, I can look back at a very valuable time which taught me a lot and gave me the opportunity to engage with many Americans also outside of the office. When doing this, personal growth and self-development in almost all areas of your personality are guaranteed. Being exposed to a city like Chicago for one year is an experience which any person in their twenties should cherish and embrace.”

Fabian F., Former Government Projects & Trade Missions Intern