Entrepreneurial Scotland places record 208 students in internships worldwide

208 students from Scottish universities are undertaking summer internships across the UK, Australia, Canada, and the USA, with a record number of employers taking part.

Entrepreneurial Scotland has announced its largest-ever Saltire Scholars Programme cohort, with 208 students participating in internships this summer – the highest number of placements in the charity's history.

The cohort is working on commercially significant projects across sectors including technology, engineering, finance, life sciences, marketing, operations, and business transformation.

Of the 208 placements, 60 are fully funded international internships in Australia, Canada, and the United States, while a further 148 are based across Scotland and the wider UK.

The programme has also reached a record level of employer participation, with 112 organisations taking part – the highest number in its history. The number of first-time hosts has also increased by 50%, reflecting growing demand from businesses looking to access and develop future talent.

Among the organisations hosting Saltire Scholars Interns this year are Network Rail, The Craneware Group, Insights, GSK and Sydney Airport, highlighting the breadth of organisations taking part across different sizes and sectors.

Sean McGrath, Chief Executive of Entrepreneurial Scotland, said:

“Scotland’s future prosperity depends on the opportunities we create for the next generation.

“A record 208 internships and 112 host organisations send a powerful message that businesses are prepared to invest in Scotland’s future talent. At a time when many young people are finding it harder to gain that crucial first step into the world of work, these opportunities provide the experience, confidence and connections that can shape their careers.”