Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about LaunchGVL: for students, businesses, and everyone in between.
General
What is LaunchGVL?
LaunchGVL is a work-based learning initiative of the Greenville Chamber Foundation that connects local businesses with high school students for paid internship opportunities. The program has grown from 8 students in its first year to 250+ placements.
How is LaunchGVL different from a regular internship?
LaunchGVL provides a structured, supported framework. Students are vetted through their schools, businesses are approved by the Chamber Foundation, and the program includes Interview Day events, coordinator support, and ongoing communication between all parties.
Who runs LaunchGVL?
LaunchGVL is a program of the Greenville Chamber Foundation, in partnership with Greenville County Schools and other area school systems. The day-to-day program is managed by the Chamber Foundation staff.
How can I learn more or get involved?
Visit our Contact page or email launchgvl@greenvillechamber.org. Whether you're a student, parent, educator, or business, we'd love to hear from you.
For Students
Who is eligible to participate?
LaunchGVL is open to high school students enrolled in Greenville County Schools and our partner school systems. You must be in good academic standing and have approval from your school's work-based learning coordinator.
How do I apply for an internship?
First, select your school system on the Opportunities page. Then browse available positions and click "Apply" on any that interest you. Greenville County Schools students will be directed to the GCS application portal using their school Google login. Students from partner schools apply through our on-site form.
Do I need a resume?
Yes. Plan on uploading a resume when you apply. If this is your first one, your school’s Work-Based Learning Coordinator can help, and school projects, volunteer work and extracurriculars all count as experience worth listing.
Are the internships paid?
LaunchGVL internships are paid positions. Pay varies by role and employer, and each listing shows the pay range and expected hours per week.
When do internships take place?
Internships are available across three terms: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Some positions are available year-round ("All Terms"). Schedules are flexible and designed to work around school hours.
What happens after I apply?
Your application is reviewed by LaunchGVL staff and the employer. If selected, you'll be invited to Interview Day, a structured event where you meet the business in person. After that, the employer makes a hiring decision.
Can I apply to multiple positions?
Yes! You can apply to as many positions as you're interested in. We encourage students to explore different industries and career paths.
What are Career Pathways?
Career Pathways are broad categories aligned with Greenville County Schools' career and technical education tracks. They include: Arts, Communication & Information Technology; Business, Marketing & Management; Environmental & Agricultural Systems; Health Science; Human Resources & Services; and Industrial Manufacturing & Engineering Systems. Each position maps to one or more pathways.
For Businesses
Is there a cost to participate?
There is no fee to join LaunchGVL. Positions in the program are paid, so you are responsible for the wage you offer your intern, and you set that range when you post the role.
What is the time commitment?
The commitment varies by position, but most internships run for a semester aligned with the school calendar. Interview Day typically takes 2-4 hours of your time.
What industries can participate?
All industries are welcome! We have had businesses participate from healthcare, technology, finance, manufacturing, marketing, hospitality, and many more. Diversity in career exposure is a core program goal.
How are students screened?
Students are enrolled through their school's work-based learning coordinator who certifies their eligibility. Foundation staff review all applications before positions are filled.
Can we post multiple positions?
Absolutely. You can post as many positions as you have opportunities for. Each position is reviewed individually.
How does the employer portal work?
After your business is approved, you'll receive access to the Business Portal where you can create and manage position listings, view student applications, and track your internship program, all in one place.
What if we've never hosted an intern before?
That's perfectly fine! The Greenville Chamber Foundation team provides guidance throughout the process. Many of our most successful partnerships started with businesses who had never hosted a high school intern.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out and our team will get back to you.