Marketing and Events Paid Internship

Paid Internship $15/hour | Part-Time | Flexible Schedule | Reports to Marketing and Brand Specialist & Events and Outreach Manager

Location: Downtown Lansing Inc. Office and various downtown event sites

About Downtown Lansing Inc.:

Downtown Lansing Inc. (DLI) is the downtown management agency dedicated to revitalizing and promoting economic development and community engagement in Michigan’s Downtown. A certified Main Street organization, DLI’s mission is to strengthen and nurture the culture, health, and sustainability of Downtown Lansing. Downtown Lansing is home to nearly 200 unique businesses, offering global dining experiences, wide-ranging retail offerings, and community events and attractions.

Position Overview:

Get ready to dive into the world of marketing, communications, and event management as you work alongside the DLI team to promote the people, places and stories found in Michigan’s Downtown. DLI’s Marketing and Events Intern will play an active role in planning and executing marketing campaigns, communication strategies, and community events that bring energy and connection to Downtown Lansing. This is a hands-on opportunity to build professional skills in marketing and communication, event coordination, and community outreach, while fostering a more vibrant and transformative community in Downtown Lansing.

Work Schedule:

The internship will ideally cover the 2026 Summer and Fall Semesters, with opportunities to extend past December. This is a part-time position (approximately 15 to 24 hours per week). Work will take place at the DLI office, with the ability to work remotely as needed.

Key Roles & Responsibilities:

• Support marketing, communications and events campaigns under the direction of the Marketing and Brand Specialist & the Events and Outreach Manager.
• Assist in the development and execution of social media strategies and content to engage DLI followers across all social media platforms.
• Create compelling copy for DLI communications, including newsletters, press releases, event listings and other promotional pieces.
• Participate in marketing and communication brainstorming sessions, both internally and with other downtown stakeholders.
• Gain hands-on experience in effective measurement and reporting analytics across various marketing and communications channels.
• Assist in coordinating DLI events such as Sidewalk Fest, Evening of Excellence, Seasonal Clean Up Days, Trick-or-Treat on the Square and the Big Red Ball.
• Support with event logistics, including setup, teardown, signage, guest check-in and vendor support.
• Under supervision, help recruit, organize and communicate with volunteers and partners.
• Contribute to outreach efforts like distributing flyers and engaging local businesses.
• Represent DLI at community events and meetings in a professional and friendly manner.
• Collect attendee feedback and help with post-event follow-up and reporting.
• Perform administrative tasks as needed, including inventory, document tracking and calendar updates.

Training and Supervision Framework:

• Orientation & Introduction: A kickoff session introducing DLI’s mission, brand voice, key programs, marketing channels and current initiatives.
• Frequent Check-Ins: Regular one-on-one meetings to provide support, answer questions, offer feedback, and align on timelines, deliverables and learning goals.
• Skill-Building Projects: Opportunities to lead elements of event planning, social media content creation, campaign research or community outreach with active supervision.
• Ongoing Mentorship: Exposure to best practices in marketing, communications and event management.
• Final Review & Career Guidance: A concluding session to reflect on projects, review accomplishments and discuss next steps.

Ideal Candidate:

• A junior or senior currently enrolled in a college program focused on marketing, public relations, or advertising, with an interest in event management
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with excellent organizational abilities and a solid understanding of AP Style writing
• Familiarity with various communications channels and marketing strategies
• Basic knowledge of graphic design, photography and videography best practices
• Basic understanding of website management or a strong willingness to learn
• A passion for organizing and orchestrating both small and large events
• Ability to navigate professional relationships and work in a collaborative team, both internally and with volunteers
• Willingness to learn new things and proactively ask questions
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and able to adapt in fast-paced environments
• Available to work some evening or weekend events in Downtown Lansing

To Apply:

Please send your resume and cover letter to Jenea Markham, Marketing and Brand Specialist at DLI, at jenea@downtownlansing.org, or drop off your documents to our office, 215 S. Washington Square, Suite 100, Lansing, MI 48933. Applications must be submitted by March 31, with interviews scheduled to begin in April. Applications will be screened for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and applicants found to be using AI will not be considered. Selection will be based on credentials and experience.

Pay:

$15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

People with a criminal record: are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person