West Michigan Intern Connect

West Michigan Intern Connect is the largest intern conference in Michigan, built to give interns and young professionals the tools, relationships, and know-how to get truly connected to West Michigan. Whether you’re navigating your first internship or looking to plant roots in the region, Intern Connect is your gateway to a thriving professional community.

Across a main conference event and two social gatherings, participants will gain access to real-world guidance, meaningful peer connections, and an inside look at what makes West Michigan one of the Midwest’s most exciting places to build a career. A core focus of the series is helping young professionals learn how to network — not just who to talk to, but how to build relationships that last. Beyond the events themselves, participants will have ongoing access to professional development resources and West Michigan connections through the Intern Connect Podcast and Intern Connect Newsletter, keeping the community alive long after the events wrap up.

Registration costs $65 for access to all three events.

Interested in sponsorship? Check out our sponsorship package and reach out to Karen George at georgek@hellowestmichigan.com with questions.

West Michigan Intern Connect: June 10, 2026 | 1:00–5:00 PM 📍 Amway Grand, Grand Rapids, MI

Kick off the summer at the flagship Intern Connect Conference, hosted at the iconic Amway Grand. Join West Michigan professionals for a focused fireside chat on maximizing the value of your internship and developing foundational leadership skills. Speakers will share practical guidance on navigating professional environments, building meaningful relationships, and recognizing opportunities for leadership at any stage of your career. This session is designed to equip emerging professionals with the insights needed for both immediate success and long-term career growth — all in one of West Michigan’s most distinguished venues.

Social Event — Bocce Ball Social:  June 16, 2026 | 6:00–8:00 PM 📍 Silva GR, Grand Rapids, MI

Keep the momentum going at Silva GR for a laid-back networking evening featuring heavy appetizers and bocce ball. This informal gathering gives interns the chance to connect with peers, build community in Grand Rapids, and experience Silva GR — a dynamic new addition to the local scene. Come meet new people, unwind, and enjoy an evening designed to spark the kinds of meaningful connections that define a great summer in West Michigan.

Social Event — Summer Social:  July 15, 2026 | 4:00–6:00 PM 📍 Millennium Park, Grand Rapids, MI

Close out the series with an afternoon at Millennium Park, where interns can enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, volleyball, and more. This relaxed outdoor social is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new ones, and soak up everything that makes West Michigan summers special. Come for the activities, stay for the community.

Intern Connect is where West Michigan’s next generation of professionals comes together. Don’t just do an internship — get connected.