Mitacs internship funding to help connect students, employers

More than 10,000 new internships will be funded for students in priority sectors, such as clean technology, life sciences, emergency management, advanced timber and agritech, to better connect B.C. employers with the talent and skills of the future.

The B.C. government has provided Mitacs with $50 million to support 10,000 paid internships over five years.

“These paid internships will provide students with real-world experiences in high-demand jobs and connect businesses and employers with highly skilled workers,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “By supporting internship opportunities, we can attract and retain the best students in science and technology, increase innovation and productivity, and build a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable economy.”

The provincial investment is for the Mitacs Accelerate and Elevate programs that connect student researchers and postdoctorates with innovative companies to provide real-world experience in applied research. There are opportunities for students in undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as diploma and certificate programs at B.C.’s public post-secondary institutions.

“Accelerating talent development and skills training across the province is a key part of our StrongerBC Economic Plan, and our work to build a clean and inclusive economy that works for everyone,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “The experience students gain from internships through Mitacs will continue to help them find high-paying jobs, while supporting businesses to access a greater talent pool that will further strengthen B.C.͛s economy.”

B.C. students will benefit from the internships as they gain on-the-job experience in high-demand jobs with leading and emerging companies and organizations throughout the province. Interns will also receive a minimum $10,000 stipend.

Funding for the research internships is aligned with StrongerBC’s Future Ready Plan to make post-secondary education and skills training more affordable and accessible, and to respond to the biggest challenge heard from businesses – the need for skilled people. Budget 2023 invests $480 million over three years to support Future Ready and break down barriers to post-secondary training, so more people can get the training they need for in-demand careers and employers can access the talent they need.