Growth & Business Development Intern – Design Industry (PART-TIME, Fall)

Company Description

Mercana is one of North America’s leading home furnishings wholesalers, partnering with interior designers, retail stores, and eCommerce brands across the continent. As a design-first company, we create and supply furniture, art, lighting, and home décor that helps define how people live in their homes.

Role Summary

The Growth & Business Development Intern supports Mercana’s expansion into new markets through a combination of research, outreach, and customer engagement. This role works closely with the Business Development team to identify potential customers, build a pipeline of opportunities, and support new account onboarding across retail, design, and online channels.

This is a fast-paced, entrepreneurial role focused on learning how business development drives real growth.

Responsibilities

Business Development

• Prospect, qualify, and support outreach to new customer opportunities (retail, design, online)

• Assist in building and maintaining a pipeline of target accounts

• Support outreach through email, LinkedIn, and phone

Market Research

• Research target markets, competitors, and potential customers

• Build and maintain account lists and market maps

• Identify trends and opportunities within the furniture and home décor industry

Customer Engagement

• Support conversations with prospective and existing customers

• Assist in preparing presentations and product introductions

• Help coordinate follow-ups and account onboarding activities

Collaboration

• Work closely with Business Development, Sales, and Marketing teams

• Support internal communication around new opportunities and account activity

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Business, Marketing, or related field

• Strong interest in business development, sales, or entrepreneurship

• Outgoing, confident, and comfortable speaking with new people

• Highly motivated, organized, and proactive

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

What This Role Delivers

A successful intern will gain hands-on experience in how a design-driven company builds a sales pipeline, develops new markets, and works directly with customers.

As part of this role, you will travel to High Point Market in North Carolina, the largest home furnishings trade show in the world. You will meet customers face to face, see the full breadth of the industry, and represent Mercana on the show floor.

Compensation

• $21–$25/hour

• Part-time (Fall)