Fairfax City Economic Development

In January 2025, Fairfax City Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) and John Cabot University signed a partnership to create an innovative program that aims to provide JCU students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in impactful economic development projects, while gaining valuable professional experience. The Fairfax City Economic Development program is uniquely designed to provide students with hands-on experience in economic development initiatives. Through this partnership, students will work on real-world projects, gain professional insights, and contribute to the growth and innovation of Fairfax City.

The internship and fellowship provide an opportunity for selected JCU students to engage in a four-month program focused on:

• Performing market analyses to identify Italian businesses ready for U.S. expansion;
• Developing tailored marketing strategies to promote Fairfax City’s business-friendly environment;
• Collaborating with Italian business associations to strengthen relationships and expand FCED’s Italian network.

About Fairfax City Economic Development

Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED) is a collaboration between the Fairfax City Economic Development Department and the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority, an independent agency administered by a commission appointed by the City Council to promote economic development activity within Fairfax. Fairfax City Economic Development helps attract businesses to the city, encourages and develops programs that foster connections between businesses, residents, and visitors of Fairfax City. It is a founding member of the Northern Virginia Economic Development Alliance. Learn more at www.gofairfaxcity.com. 

About the Host Organization

Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED) is focused on strengthening economic growth in Fairfax City, Virginia, through initiatives that attract international businesses. Known for its innovative business incubator, FCED supports international business recruitment and offers a collaborative environment for new ventures.

Role Summary

The FCED program offers JCU students a unique, immersive experience in economic development. Students will work closely with FCED staff on international outreach initiatives, focusing on market research for and promotion of Fairfax City as an attractive U.S. base for Italian businesses looking to expand into the US market. This role offers a blend of research, marketing, client engagement, and strategic planning responsibilities, aiming to support FCED’s objectives in Italy and increase the student's real-world business acumen.

Key Responsibilities

• Research & Strategy: Conduct research to identify Italian companies interested in U.S. market expansion;
• Develop a database of potential business partners and create tailored outreach strategies;
• Marketing & Brand Promotion: Contribute to the creation of a marketing strategy for FCED, specifically targeting Italian businesses. Develop promotional materials and draft collateral for Italian audiences;
• Client Engagement: Act as a point of contact between Italian businesses and FCED. Conduct initial outreach and foster relationships with Italian business communities to promote FCED services;
• Program Collaboration: Participate in regular meetings with FCED’s business investment team and contribute to brainstorming sessions. Work collaboratively with team members on strategic goals and deliverables.

Requirements

• Education: Must be a current JCU student enrolled during the program semester, ideally in business, marketing, economics, or a related field;
• Skills: Strong research, communication, and organizational skills. Comfort with client engagement and the ability to work independently;
• Experience: Prior experience in business research or marketing is a plus. Interest in international business, economic development, or U.S.-Italy relations preferred;
• Status: Junior or Senior standing preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum GPA of 2.7;
• Familiarity with the Italian business landscape and an interest in economic development;
• Bilingual in Italian and English is an advantage.

Professional Development Opportunities

• Hands-on Experience: Students will gain practical skills in research, client engagement, and strategic marketing;
• Networking: Exposure to international business professionals and policymakers;
• Career Pathways: This experience builds a strong foundation for careers in economic development, international business, and government relations.