Business Development & Marketing Intern

About the Role

HardwareCycle is a Chicago-based technology startup focused on transforming how businesses buy and sell enterprise IT equipment. We are seeking motivated college students interested in gaining hands-on experience in business development, sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

Role Description

As a Business Development & Marketing Intern, you will work directly with the founder to help expand our network of buyers, sellers, and industry partners. This opportunity is designed for students who want practical exposure to building a business, developing client relationships, executing marketing strategies, and understanding B2B sales.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and identify prospective customers, technology companies, IT resellers, and enterprise organizations.
• Support business development through email outreach, LinkedIn engagement, and lead generation.
• Assist in developing and executing digital marketing campaigns to increase brand awareness.
• Build and maintain relationships with potential buyers and sellers.
• Track leads, customer interactions, and business opportunities.
• Participate in sales discussions and learn how B2B transactions are structured and negotiated.
• Collaborate directly with the founder on growth strategies, marketing initiatives, and business expansion.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Entrepreneurship, or a related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated, organized, and eager to learn.
• Interest in technology, startups, sales, or digital marketing.
• Comfortable using LinkedIn, email, and other professional communication platforms.
• Ability to work independently and contribute ideas in a growing business.
• No previous sales or technology industry experience required.

What You'll Gain

• Direct mentorship and collaboration with the founder.
• Hands-on experience growing an early-stage technology company.
• Exposure to enterprise sales, business negotiations, and client relationship management.
• Experience developing marketing campaigns and generating business opportunities.
• Opportunities to build a professional network within the technology industry.
• Flexible scheduling designed to accommodate academic commitments.

Compensation

• Performance-based commission structure: 10% of HardwareCycle's earned brokerage or success fee on qualifying transactions directly sourced by the intern and successfully completed.
• Commission eligibility, payment terms, and any applicable wages will be outlined in a written agreement before the internship begins.