

KEEP IT LOCAL
Opportunities for interns to meet, connect and network

Ignite CR is a program for college students and interns working in the Cedar Rapids metro. This summer event series gives students the opportunity to meet one another, explore our incredible culture, connect with young professionals, and imagine a future for themselves in the 319.
Hosting interns this summer?
Encourage them to sign up for Ignite CR! Registration will kick off in May. Information regarding the program will be sent out to company representatives for interns to register themselves for each event. If you have questions, or have not participated in this program before, please reach out to Laura Seyfer at LSeyfer@cedarrapids.org.
2025 Ignite CR Schedule
- Thursday, June 12 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM –Kickoff The Summer @ Big Grove Brewery
Start your summer in Cedar Rapids with a night that’s all about meeting new people, having fun, and discovering what’s possible here. We’re taking over Big Grove Brewery with trivia, a welcome from several local leaders, and fast-paced convos to help you connect with other interns and local young people who are making moves in CR.
- Tuesday, June 17 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM –Lunch & Learn: How to Maximize Your Internship Experience
- Thursday, June 26 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM –Music in the Park @ Uptown Marion
Kick things off with a welcome from Mayor Nick—yep, he’s in on the fun too. Then dive into a fast-paced scavenger hunt packed with surprises, local gems, and Insta-worthy moments. We’ll wrap it all up with live music and chill vibes in the park. Don’t miss this chance to discover the hidden charm of Marion—and maybe win a prize or two.
- Thursday, July 10 | 5:30 – 8:00 PM –Regional Mixer with Greater IC @ Pinseekers
Elevate your summer internship experience with this lively regional mixer, uniting interns from Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. This event will highlight the importance of networking and how to have authentic connections. There will be a short program to kick off the night along with food and time to practice your golf swing.
- Thursday, July 17 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM –Lunch & Learn: Personal Finance
- Thursday, July 24 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM – Summit & Sip: Summer Finale @ Mount Trashmore
We’re closing out Ignite CR with a vibe—patio hangs, cold drinks, and an iconic Cedar Rapids adventure. Meet us at Lion Bridge Brewing to kick back with a brew, then we’ll take a short hike up Mount Trashmore (yes, it’s a real place—and yes, it’s actually cool) for the best views in the city and some end-of-summer energy.
Are you a student looking for an internship?
Check out this list of companies with internship programs in the Cedar Rapids Metro area!
Need Interns?
We recommend posting your internships and jobs to Handshake, a national platform that connects you with college students locally in Iowa and across the country. Learn more about Handshake.
If you’d like to connect with Iowa State University students, create an account on CyHire.
CyHire is a platform exclusively for ISU students to find job and internship opportunities.
Workplace Learning Connection (high school internships)
https://www.kirkwood.edu/workplace-learning-connection/partners-volunteers