Ohio Export Internship Program
Launch Your Global Career with the Ohio Export Internship Program
Turn your classroom knowledge into real-world impact. The Ohio Export Internship Program (OEIP) gives BGSU students the chance to work directly with Ohio businesses, helping them expand into international markets.
Through hands-on projects, expert mentorship and immersive training, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to navigate global trade while driving economic growth right here at home. Whether you’re passionate about business strategy, cultural exchange or making a difference, OEIP is your gateway to a world of opportunity.
Building Ohio’s Global Workforce
The Ohio Export Internship Program shows the power of collaboration between universities, private industry and the state of Ohio.
The impact of OEIP
- Strategic partnership. A collaboration between Ohio universities and the Ohio Department of Development to train a global workforce, grow export sales and create jobs for small and mid-sized businesses.
- Statewide reach: The program now includes six academic cohort universities and delivers the preparation course to students from more than 18 universities across Ohio.
- Closing the skills gap. OEIP connects students who have developed critical global business skills with companies that need export expertise.
- Real-world impact. Apply classroom knowledge to real business challenges and help Ohio companies compete internationally, strengthening the state’s economy.
- Hands-on experience. Work directly with senior executives on meaningful export projects.
- Specialized training and networking. Gain in-depth knowledge of new export market opportunities, learn from faculty and government experts and build valuable connections with industry leaders.
As an OEIP participate, you will be automatically enrolled in Exporting Strategy and Practice MGMT 3920 (3 credit hours, spring semester). Class is held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 6-7:15 p.m., at Bowling Green State University. Please leave room in your spring schedule to accommodate this required course.
Course instructors are experts in the field of international trade who offer specialized export insight on topics such as global market analysis, export partner identification, international pricing, logistics, distribution and other real-life issues and challenges.
- This program is open to all BGSU students, both international and domestic.
- Applicants are assessed on:
- Interest in exporting and international business
- Strong organizational, communication and planning skills
- Enrollment in MGMT 3920 during the spring semester
- Commitment to working with a company for 40 hours per week for 12 weeks during the summer semester
- GPA (must be a minimum of 3.0)
- Successfully completing a face-to-face interview with the instructors (interviews will be scheduled)
Students in the OEIP program are placed with a small- to medium-sized Ohio company for a paid summer internship. Students will also have access to resources provided by the state and federal government, as well as Bowling Green State University.
Internships can be in any sector or industry and will focus specifically on international trade efforts. Examples of past companies include Davenport Aviation, Fecon, Global Gauge, Rain Drop Products, Regal Beloit, Sutphen Fire Trucks, U.S. Bridge and Worthington Industries – just to name a few.
- The application for the 2025 OEIP is currently closed; the application will re-open in August 2026.
- If you are interested in enrolling in MGMT 3920: Export Strategy and Practice, contact Dr. Man Zhang at mzhang@bgsu.edu for registration assistance
President's "E" Award
In May 2016 and 2017, this unique Program was recognized for its export excellence by receiving the President’s “E” Award as a nationwide model for impactful collaboration to expand exports in Ohio. The award was presented at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker in 2016 and by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross in 2017. The award is the highest recognition any U.S. organization can receive for its contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports.
BGSU International Business Programs
In today’s global economy, adaptability is essential. BGSU’s international business program helps students:
- Understand global business transactions and cross-border trade
- Explore political, cultural, and regulatory factors shaping international markets
- Build skills in accounting, finance, marketing, management, and supply chain for careers in multinational corporations and globally active firms
Testimonial and News
I thought it was encouraging that they matched me with a great company that is valuing my time and giving me a listening ear to see how we can improve things globally, OEIP found a perfect match.
– Disciple V.Z Mleya
Updated: 02/05/2026 11:13AM