Cambridge Network member Santander offers internship grants to city SMEs

Santander offers part-funding of a basic salary for those who take part. To be considered for the scheme, SMEs must have fewer than 250 employees and annual turnover of less than £50 million.

The programme is a link-up between the bank and partner universities, including the University of Cambridge. It aims to encourage entrepreneurialism and promote the benefits of working for an SME to final-year and recently graduated students, while also providing an injection of talent to firms with limited resources.

Hilary Laing, Cambridge Network’s COO, says: “We are very keen on promoting this to our members so that they can benefit from this great opportunity. If anyone has questions about what’s involved, they should contact us.”

Cambridge Intelligence is one local company that has used the scheme. Kaush Kotak, Project Manager at Cambridge Intelligence, comments: "During their internships with us, Cambridge University graduates have proven to be hugely valuable additions to our team.

“The learning process with interns is always a two-way street. We can pass on our experience and knowledge, and 'lift the lid' to show what goes on within a successful start-up. But often the interns are equally able to teach us a thing or two. They are invariably bright, enthusiastic and ambitious, capable of bringing fresh perspectives and opinions, and able to see new ways to solve existing problems and challenges."

To take advantage of the Santander programme, which can provide funding of up to £1500, Cambridge Network members are encouraged to post their internship positions with the Recruitment Gateway and the University of Cambridge Careers Service.

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