The search for companies and businesses to work with is often a challenge, even in the best of times. And in this market, candidates with years of valuable experience and skills also face this challenge.

What kind of “professional” are you looking for?

Cultivate New York wants to give you the opportunity to meet with businesses and demonstrate your skills. These businesses are looking for professionals with skills in design, engineering, accounting, programming, copywriting, public relations, sales, legal, operations, etc. This is not a standard season-help job fair – this is for real professionals or skilled workers in information-based roles – looking for opportunities to work and grow.

Cultivate New York is ideal for:

1. Professionals who are looking for new employment
   In the last quarter of every fiscal year, finding part-time, full-time or project-based work is a challenge. Engaging in a CNY opportunity provides continuity to your resume and additional relationship-building for future roles.
2. Recent University graduates
   , Due to the tough economic times, recent college graduates are still looking for work – and are impacted even more by the end of the fiscal year. A temporary opportunity in the industry or sector you desire will provide direction in building your career.
3. Career switcher
   Finding an opportunity in a non-profit or a start-up without prior experience can be a difficult switch. A temporary opportunity demonstrates your commitment to the process and help you win the position more easily.
4. C-Level Mentor or Board Member
   Companies looking for guidance and leadership, but have little in the way of contacts would benefit from your experience.

What do I have to do? What’s the catch?

All temporary unpaid opportunities have the potential to become a full- or part-time paid job, a networking opportunity and/or a resume booster. In addition, for unpaid positions at start-up companies, the work could be done for equity.

All you are expected to do is provide 10 hours a week, for 10 weeks to a particular business willing to engage you for your skills. No – this is not employment, this is more of a grown-up internship relationship.

Aren’t internships for students? I am a X year professional in Y industry

No – internships (or earlier in business, apprenticeships) were about trading time and skills for opportunities. This is a chance to demonstrate your skills and abilities to a potential client or employer. Instead of solely using your resume, this is about performance and relationships.

Disclaimer: Cultivate New York is the agent that facilitates the meeting between you and the businesses that take part. This is not a hiring situation, this is a volunteer opportunity that does not constitute employment. Any employment relationship is entirely up to each company to make. Cultivate New York is not responsible for any choices made by the parties.