University of Wisconsion - Eau Claire

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Proposal

Downtown Business Engagement Intern

Community partner: Downtown Eau Claire Incorporated
Supervisor: Erin Klaus
Beginning date:
2026-02-02
Ending Date:
2026-05-01

Project Proposal Description

1.

Briefly describe the project and the community need to be addressed.

Answer DECI seeks a motivated Downtown Business Engagement Intern to help deepen connections with local businesses and strengthening DECI’s presence in the downtown business community. This internship offers real-world professional experience in community engagement, nonprofit operations, small business outreach, and stakeholder relations. Key Responsibilities As the Downtown Business Engagement Intern, you will: - Manage project to visit downtown businesses in person to help build DECI’s connections with business owners, collect information, and hear their concerns about downtown - Conduct structured short surveys with business owners/managers to gather feedback on current needs, challenges, and awareness of DECI programs and resources. - Provide informational materials about DECI membership, benefits, upcoming events, grants, and business resources. - Document outreach results, including survey responses and conversations, in clear, organized reports. - Collaborate with DECI staff to help refine outreach strategies and share insights from business engagement. - Assist DECI staff with other programming on an as-needed basis.

2.

What is the mission of the agency or organization?

Answer Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. (DECI) is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the development of business, housing, cultural resources, and activities in downtown Eau Claire. DECI works collaboratively with downtown businesses, community partners, and residents to strengthen economic vitality and enhance the vibrancy of downtown through events, advocacy, and innovative projects.

3.

What skills are required for this project?

Answer - Be outgoing, reliable, and comfortable initiating conversations with diverse people. - Have strong written and verbal communication skills. - Be self-motivated and able to work independently with guidance from DECI staff. - Have access to a smartphone or device for digital survey collection and mapping (training can be provided).

4.

What are the learning objectives for this project

Answer - Applied experience in business outreach and community engagement. - Improved communication and interpersonal skills through direct engagement with local business owners. - Insight into nonprofit operations, especially as they relate to downtown economic and cultural development. - Data collection and reporting experience useful for future professional or academic work.

5.

What are the availability requirements for the student?

Answer Must be available for at least 4 hours a week during typical downtown business hours - Wednesdays-Saturdays 10-6

6.

Additional information (not required).

Answer How to Apply: Please send the following to hello@downtowneauclaire.org: - A resume - Your academic schedule and hours you are available each week
Community-Engaged Learning • University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire • Eau Claire WI 54702-4004
Vicki Lord Larson 2146 • A Unit of: Academic Affairs
Phone: 715-836-4649 • Fax: 715-836-4023
Questions/Comments: cel@uwec.edu
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