Institute of Project Management (IPM) and The Intern Group Partnership: Addressing PM Talent Gap

Introduction

The Institute of Project Management (IPM) and The Intern Group are proud to build on their established partnership, continuing their shared mission to prepare the next generation of project professionals through globally accessible, skills-based internship programmes.

Bringing together over three decades of expertise in project management education with a world-leading platform for international internships, this collaboration is designed to equip students and young professionals with the competencies, confidence and experience needed to thrive in today’s complex, fast-changing world of work.

A Natural Alignment of Strengths

According to the Global Project Management Talent Gap Report, the world will need up to 30 million new project professionals by 2035 to meet demand. Without them, the global economy could lose as much as $345.5 billion in GDP by 2030.¹

Recognising this need, this partnership brings together two leaders in their respective fields:

• The Institute of Project Management brings over 35 years of focused expertise in project, programme and portfolio management education. IPM has helped thousands of learners build rewarding, future-ready careers.
• The Intern Group is a global leader in internship experiences, offering students and graduates the opportunity to gain international work experience, develop essential soft skills, and build professional networks across industries and borders.

What This Means for Students, Universities and Employers

The IPM and The Intern Group partnership will enable the delivery of tailored internships that combine academic rigour with applied experience. These programmes will:

• Develop Future Project Leaders: Interns will gain both technical knowledge and essential human skills, such as stakeholder communication, adaptability and leadership.
• Increase Access to Real-World Experience: Learners will work on live projects in multidisciplinary, international contexts, preparing them for diverse organisational environments.
• Support Employers Facing a Talent Shortage: Organisations will benefit from a growing pipeline of well-trained, motivated individuals ready to contribute from day one.
• Promote Inclusion and Access: The partnership supports diverse, inclusive participation, opening doors to students from all backgrounds and geographies.
• Expand Access to Project Management Resources: Students will benefit from greater exposure to professional tools, templates, and learning materials, equipping them with the practical knowledge to apply project principles with confidence, even beyond their internships.

Looking Ahead

IPM welcomes internship applications year-round, with opportunities continuously available to students applying through The Intern Group. There is no set cohort or launch date, students can begin their internship journey at a time that suits their development.

Together, IPM and The Intern Group are committed to shaping a more capable, connected, and resilient future project management workforce.

1. PMI. 2025. "Global Project Management Talent Gap."