A new initiative from the University of Liverpool is set to accelerate business innovation and growth across the Liverpool City Region (LCR) by connecting local SMEs with talented student interns.
Liverpool Interns, part of the University’s commitment to strengthening knowledge exchange and supporting regional economic development, offers businesses the chance to host a student for an 80‑hour project placement—backed by a £1,000 bursary to cover salary costs. The programme is designed to help organisations unlock fresh ideas, tackle specific projects and benefit from new perspectives, while providing valuable real‑world experience to University of Liverpool students.
The initiative is targeted at SMEs working within the six priority growth sectors identified in the Liverpool City Region Local Growth Plan 2025–2035. Among these is the Visitor Economy, making the programme a timely opportunity for hospitality, tourism, leisure, culture and events organisations preparing for future growth.
Supporting LCR SMEs
To take part, companies must meet the following criteria:
- Be an SME based within the Liverpool City Region, with fewer than 250 employees
- Have a physical working space within the LCR
- Have an existing payroll to pay the student directly (the University reimburses the employer)
- Offer a role suitable for a University of Liverpool student
- Ensure internships are completed by August 2026
Businesses across all eligible sectors are encouraged to propose project‑based internships that will positively impact their organisation. The University reviews each proposal to ensure it aligns with the region’s growth priorities and can offer meaningful learning for the student.
Enhancing Innovation Through Collaboration
Liverpool Interns is designed to foster collaboration between academia and industry, enabling SMEs to access specialist skills while supporting the city region’s future workforce. The programme also helps students gain valuable professional experience that strengthens their employability and deepens their connection to the local economy.
The University is encouraging Visitor Economy partners and other LCR organisations to explore how an intern could support their ambitions—whether through digital content creation, research, marketing, data analysis, business development, sustainability projects or operational improvements.
Full details for employers can be found on the University of Liverpool websit, HERE.