Startup Internships

Why Intern at a Startup?

Interning at a startup offers a unique chance to make a real impact from day one. Unlike large corporations, startups give interns more responsibility, flexibility, and exposure to different roles.

You’re not just watching—you’re contributing. If you intern at a startup, you’ll likely work closely with founders, learn fast, and build valuable skills that set you apart. This hands-on experience helps you grow your confidence and adaptability in a dynamic environment.

Plus, many interns for startups turn these short-term roles into full-time opportunities. Read more about the benefits of interning at a startup.

Startup Internships - Interns for Startups

Internships at Startups

Business Development Intern – Sales Support & Lead Generation for a platform connecting startups and
Palma
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
27/05/2025
Join a fast-growing AI startup in Palma (or remote) that's transforming how investors discover early-stage startups across Europe. As a Business Development Intern, you’ll dive into lead generation, outreach, and sales strategy—gaining hands-on experience at the intersection of AI, startups, and venture capital.
SDR Intern at a cloud and cybersecurity startup in Malaga (must be Catalan/Spanish speaker)
Malaga
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
06/06/2025
Kickstart your career in B2B tech sales with a 6-month internship at a fast-growing IT company in Malaga, specializing in infrastructure, cybersecurity, and managed services. As a Sales Development Intern, you'll gain hands-on experience in lead generation, outreach, and CRM tools while working with a dynamic commercial team—ideal for proactive, Catalan/Spanish-speaking students eager to break into tech.
Software engineering intern in an e-commerce startup
Lisbon
💰 Paid
12/05/2025
Join a fast-growing Portuguese e-commerce startup as a Software Engineering Intern, where you'll help build web and mobile features using React, React Native, and Next.js. This is a hands-on role with real impact, offering mentorship, ownership, and the chance to contribute to the launch of a social commerce platform.
Digital Marketing intern at a remote-first e-commerce startup
Lisbon
📢 Digital Marketing
💰 Paid
11/05/2025
Join a fast-growing social shopping startup as a Marketing Intern, where you’ll gain hands-on experience across social media, email marketing, content creation, and user engagement. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a product launch, work closely with an experienced marketing team, and shape how the brand connects with its community.
Sales intern at a remote-first e-commerce startup
Lisbon
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
11/05/2025
Join a fast-growing Portuguese ecommerce startup on a mission to redefine social shopping. As a Business Development & Account Management Intern, you’ll help onboard sellers, analyze performance, and contribute directly to marketplace growth in a remote, high-impact environment.
Implementation Intern at a supplier management software startups
Lincoln
⚙️ Operations
💰 Paid
03/05/2025
The Implementation Intern supports the successful setup of customer sites on the Canopy platform by translating business requirements into clear, actionable documentation for both technical and non-technical teams. This role is ideal for someone detail-oriented and proactive, with strong spreadsheet skills and a desire to grow their technical knowledge in a SaaS environment.
Marketing & Customer Experience Intern at a Jewellery business
Milton Keynes
📢 Digital Marketing
💰 Paid
03/05/2025
Join a growing UK jewellery retailer as it launches its e-commerce presence and builds a digital brand from the ground up. This hands-on internship in Milton Keynes offers experience across marketing, content creation, and customer engagement in a fast-moving retail environment.
US B2B Sales Development Representative Intern
Paris
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
02/05/2025
A remote B2B Outbound Sales Internship with a fast-growing AdCreative company, focused on generating leads and driving new business through cold outreach and strategic sales efforts. Ideal for a motivated, US-based individual interested in sales and working independently in a dynamic, creative environment.
Founder’s Associate Intern at an insurance-focussed Fintech
Madrid
💡 Founders Associate
💰 Paid
27/04/2025
We’re looking for a highly analytical and ambitious Founder’s Associate Intern to work directly with the CEO of a leading fintech company in Madrid, supporting strategic projects, research, and day-to-day operations. If you're organized, eager to learn, and excited to gain firsthand experience inside a fast-growing startup, we’d love to hear from you.
AI / Machine Learning intern
Faro District
💻 Web Development and UI/UX
💰 Paid
27/04/2025
We’re looking for a driven Technology Intern with a background in machine learning, TensorFlow, and biometric systems to help advance real-world AI solutions at a cutting-edge secure communications startup. If you have the courage to push new ideas forward, a sharp technical mind, and a passion for innovation, we want to hear from you.
Design intern at an AI startup
Faro District
✏️ Product and Design
💰 Paid
27/04/2025
We’re seeking a talented and disciplined Design Intern to help shape our brand, UI, and marketing assets at a fast-moving tech startup focused on secure communications. If you have sharp design skills, experience with Figma, Canva, and AI imagery, and the drive to lead creative projects within a strategic framework, we want to hear from you.
Sales Development Representative Intern at an AI startup
Faro District
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
27/04/2025
We’re looking for a tenacious, detail-driven Sales Intern to help build and execute an AI-powered sales strategy at a fast-growing tech startup redefining secure communications. If you’re a natural leader with a passion for business, courage under pressure, and a drive to deliver results, we want to hear from you.
Sales & Business Development Intern at a Communication Coaching Platform
London
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
14/04/2025
Are you ready to make an impact in the sales world? This internship provides an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in B2B sales, lead generation, and business development. Work directly with experienced founders and sales professionals while contributing to the growth of a dynamic communication coaching platform.
Talent Acquisition & Recruitment Internship in an International Energy-Focused HR Consultancy
Madrid
🎧 Customer Success
💰 Paid
11/04/2025
Join a Madrid-based recruitment consultancy specialized in the global energy sector, supporting the France division with end-to-end recruitment tasks. From sourcing to first interviews, you’ll gain hands-on experience in international talent acquisition while sharpening your French, Spanish, and English communication skills. Ideal for someone who thrives in a multicultural environment and wants to grow their career in HR within a dynamic, fast-paced startup.
Marketing & Sales Assistant in an EdTech Company Focused on Chinese Language Learning
Paris
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
27/05/2025
Join an international EdTech platform helping children around the world learn new languages through immersive and tech-enabled methods. As a Marketing & Sales Assistant, you’ll support operations across sales, marketing, administration, and communications. This is a hands-on opportunity for someone interested in education, digital tools, and global impact to gain broad experience across teams.
Consultative sales Intern for a Marketing agency in London
London
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
08/04/2025
This internship offers a unique opportunity for candidates to gain hands-on experience in sales and account management. The intern will work directly with a growing sales team, contributing to lead generation, account management, and podcast-driven growth strategies. This is a chance to shape the future of the sales process, learn from industry experts, and play an active role in a variety of sales and marketing activities.
English & AI Support Intern in a Company Enhancing Language Services with Technology
Madrid
⚙️ Operations
💰 Paid
07/04/2025
This internship offers a unique opportunity to develop your skills in both teaching and technology, providing you with a well-rounded experience. By working directly with ESL students and engaging with AI-driven improvements, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience that can open doors in both the education and tech industries. If you’re passionate about making a real impact in both education and technology, this is the perfect role to kickstart your career and learn in an exciting, dynamic environment.
English Teaching Intern in a Madrid-based language centre
Madrid
👨‍💻👩‍💻 Curricular Internship
💰 Paid
07/04/2025
A Madrid-based English learning centre is looking for an enthusiastic intern to support its interactive and engaging teaching programs. The centre focuses on making language learning fun and immersive for children through creative teaching methods.
Founders Associate Intern in a Fast-Growing Sports Management Platform – Madrid or Remote
Madrid
💡 Founders Associate
💰 Paid
27/05/2025
An innovative sports management platform is looking for a Founders Associate Intern to join their team and play a key role in scaling the business. This position provides a unique opportunity to work closely with the Founder and CTO and be involved in every aspect of the business, from operations to strategy. The role can be hybrid in Madrid or fully remote, offering a great chance to grow alongside a fast-developing startup.
Digital Marketing intern at theInterna
London
📢 Digital Marketing
💰 Paid
31/03/2025
Join a fast-growing startup connecting top UK & Irish students with startups across Europe as a Digital Marketing Intern, where you’ll take the lead on content, campaigns, and performance analysis. This is a hands-on opportunity to build your skills across the digital marketing stack while making a real impact in an early-stage business.
QA Tester and Automated Testing Intern at an GenZ career platform startup
Madrid
💻 Web Development and UI/UX
💰 Paid
31/03/2025
A company developing an AI-driven career mentorship platform is looking for interns to join its Quality Assurance (QA) and Automated Testing team. The platform is designed to help Gen Z navigate the future of work by providing personalized career guidance, learning paths, and skill development opportunities.
UK Business Development intern for a Fashion tech startup
Barcelona
📈 Sales and Business Development
💰 Paid
26/03/2025
This business development internship offers the opportunity to work with a fast-growing fashion-tech startup that partners with major global brands to solve sizing challenges in the industry. Ideal for students interested in sales, fashion, and technology, the role involves lead generation, market research, and supporting the sales team in expanding across the UK and English-speaking markets.
Customer Experience Intern in a storage solutions startup
London
🎧 Customer Success
💰 Paid
24/03/2025
Looking to make a real impact on student experiences? This Customer Experience Internship is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a fast-growing service tailored to university students across the UK. If you're passionate about delivering outstanding customer support and improving user experiences, this role is perfect for you.
Full Stack Developer (Remote) in a Second-Hand Bike Marketplace Startup
Oxford
💻 Web Development and UI/UX
💰 Paid
21/03/2025
A company in the sustainable mobility sector is looking for a Full Stack Developer to help build and maintain its digital platform. This role is ideal for someone passionate about web development, cloud infrastructure, and scalable applications.
Marketing Specialist in a Second-Hand Bike Marketplace Startup
Oxford
📢 Digital Marketing
💰 Paid
21/03/2025
A company in the sustainable mobility sector is looking for a Marketing Specialist to lead campaigns, engage the community, and grow brand awareness. This is a great opportunity for a creative and proactive individual with a passion for marketing and social impact.

Interns for Startups

Best Startup Roles for Interns

Some of the best startup roles for interns offer direct exposure to leadership and fast-paced projects. These roles let you contribute meaningfully while learning how startups really work:

Each of these startup internships helps build skills that matter—fast.

Where to Find Startup Internships

Looking for startup internships that actually lead somewhere?

On TheInterna, you’ll find curated opportunities across marketing, sales, strategy, operations, and more—all in one place. Use our filters to explore roles by country, duration, sector, or remote options. Whether you want to intern at a startup in Europe or join a remote team, we make it easy to find internships that match your goals.

Start browsing and apply with confidence—these roles are updated regularly and designed for ambitious students and grads.

How to Apply for a Startup Internship with theInterna

1. Search

Browse our curated list of marketing internships with global startups (average length 3-12 months). New opportunities are posted regularly—sign up to stay updated and never miss a match.

2. Apply / Create Profile

Submit your application directly through theInterna. Take your time—this is your chance to show your personality, goals, and interests. One strong profile gives you access to multiple internships.

3. Interview with theInterna

If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be invited to a short interview with our team. We’ll get to know you better, answer your questions, and understand what kind of internship suits you best.

4. Get Matched with Internships

Once we understand your strengths and goals, we’ll introduce you to internship opportunities that fit. You’ll meet multiple startups and choose where you’d like to interview.

5. Final Interviews & Offers

You'll have interviews directly with startup founders or marketing leads. If there's a good fit, you'll receive one or more internship offers—and choose the one that excites you most.

6. Prep with Our Free Course

Before starting, you’ll join our short online course designed to boost your confidence, entrepreneurial mindset, and marketing readiness—so you start your internship strong.

7. Begin Your Startup Internship!

You're in. Join your new team, dive into real marketing work, take ownership, and build portfolio-worthy results from day one.

What Students Say About theInterna’s Startup Internships

theInterna Reviews: Real Stories from Internship Students

Many students who’ve completed an internship or placement year, like those featured on theInterna, highlight how it transformed their careers by offering hands-on experience and valuable connections.

To help with your decision, consider reading testimonials or listening to real stories from students who’ve gone through placements.

Student Testimonials on theInterna’s Internship Experience

Tom Coleman
Tom ColemanStudent - Durham
theInterna has been very helpful with not only finding me a valuable internship in a Spain but also by providing a crash course into the world of start-ups that means I can provide more value to the company I’ll be working for. The course content was perfectly balanced between concepts, tools, and practical exercises. I feel ready to hit the ground running!
Hannah Kenyon
Hannah KenyonStudent - University of Leeds
The Strategy, Sales and Digital Marketing course ran by theInterna has been truly amazing. Packed with content, diagrams and links to external platforms, I have learnt so many new things and it has broadened my areas of interest. I now feel much better equipped and have formed more of an idea of my career path when I graduate. theInterna also set me up with a brilliant internship in Spain, providing a flawless process from the initial call through to securing the placement, and it has been a pleasure having the agency as a point of contact. Without a doubt I would recommend theInterna.
Hannah Yates
Hannah YatesStudent - Cardiff University
Outstanding training and support provided by theInterna. The training comprised a variety of invaluable resources, presented clearly and concisely, with a good mixture of videos, articles and exercises to put our knowledge into practice. The calls were useful to consolidate what I’d learnt over the week and get clarity on anything I was unsure of. Not only do I feel better equipped to begin my internship, but I feel inspired to create my own startup in the near future!
Imogen Barrett
Imogen BarrettStudent - Oxford
the Interna is a fantastic organisation which feels so tailor made to your needs: you get a consultation call with theInterna to help you find the best option for an internship. The new Interna training course is an amazing free add on to boost business skills and add to your CV.
Samuel Carro
Samuel CarroStudent - Cardiff University
I personally believe that this course was so beneficial for me whilst also on my placement. Joining a Start-up can be very fast-paced sometimes, and you often have to learn on the job. Doing this course alongside my job allowed me to learn some valuable skills that I needed in future weeks! What I liked most was the flexibility of the course, there were lots of resources that you could use, but if you did not have enough time, there were summary pages that were clear and concise! It as a great and very interesting course.

Startup Internship Tips from theInterna

What Startups Look for in Interns

Startups move fast, so they value interns who are adaptable, proactive, and ready to learn. Unlike big companies, they often skip formal training and expect you to contribute quickly. To stand out when applying to internships at startups, focus on showing:

  • Problem-solving skills – Can you figure things out on your own?
  • Curiosity and initiative – Do you take action without being told?
  • Communication – Are you clear, responsive, and easy to work with?
  • Basic technical or marketing skills – Depending on the role
  • A growth mindset – Are you open to feedback and learning?

Even without experience, showing these traits can land you the internship.

Startup Internships - Internships at Startups

How to Prepare for Your Internships at Startups

Getting ready for internships at startups starts with understanding the role and what’s expected. Before your first day, make sure to:

  • Read the internship offer carefully – Understand the tasks, tools, and expectations
  • Update your CV – Tailor it to the role using our placement CV guide
  • Build key skills early – Review tools or topics relevant to the role
  • Set learning goals – Know what experience you want to gain
  • Going abroad? – Erasmus students can check our tips for Erasmus internships

For more preparation advice, see our full guide on how to prepare for an internship.

How to Make the Most of Your Startup Internship

To make the most of your startup internship, show up curious, proactive, and ready to learn fast. Startups move quickly, so your ability to adapt and contribute matters more than perfection. Here’s how to get the most out of the experience:

  • Take initiative – Don’t wait to be told what to do
  • Ask smart questions – Clarify tasks and show you care
  • Track your work – Build a record of what you achieved
  • Network internally – Learn from different roles and teams
  • Ask for feedback – It’s how you grow

For more practical tips, read our full guide on how to make the most of your internship.

Our Universities Partners

FAQs about Startup Internships

Right here on theInterna—the only platform fully dedicated to connecting students and grads with real startup internship opportunities in the UK. We’re building what most startups haven’t: a structured, accessible space to find and apply for meaningful roles.

Use theInterna to apply for curated roles where startups actually want interns. We guide both sides—helping founders onboard interns and helping students show up ready from day one.

That’s exactly what theInterna is for. Many of the best learning experiences come from “no-name” startups doing big things. We spotlight them, so you don’t miss out just because they aren’t on major job boards.

Yes! theInterna welcomes recent graduates looking to break into the startup world. Many of our listings are flexible and designed for those transitioning into work life with real projects and founder access.

TheInterna focuses on students in their final or penultimate year, so we don’t offer internships to first-year students. If you’re just starting out, try exploring opportunities on platforms like LinkedIn, StudentJob UK, or reach out to university career services for early experience programs.

theInterna includes remote-first and hybrid roles from UK startups. You can filter by location or remote work to find options that match your lifestyle and learning goals.

Search theInterna for roles like Founder’s Associate or Operations Intern. We actively encourage founders to create these rare, high-trust positions—and we help both sides make them work.

Startups listed on theInterna are genuinely looking for interns to contribute and grow with their teams. Some internships are paid, while others are not—details are always clearly stated in the job description. We work with startups that value interns and aim to create real learning opportunities, not just free labour. Always check the listing to understand what’s offered.