In this article, Yirun WANG (ESSEC Business School, Master in Strategy & Management of International Business (SMIB), 2024-2025) shares her internship experience at Impact Hub Shanghai, a global network focused on empowering sustainable business innovation. As an Inclusive Innovation intern, I had the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects while gaining valuable insights into sustainability, entrepreneurship, and cross-sector collaboration. This experience not only deepened my understanding of sustainable consumption but also connected me to the broader world of impact investing and the financial ecosystem that supports sustainable development.
About the company
Impact Hub Shanghai is part of a global network of over 100 hubs in 60+ countries, dedicated to fostering sustainable business practices and social innovation. The organization supports entrepreneurs, startups, and corporations in driving positive changes through initiatives like sustainability advocacy, innovation consulting, and impact investment services.
Impact Hub Shanghai’s mission is to inspire, enable, and connect individuals and organizations to create a more sustainable and inclusive future. Their work spans various sectors, including climate action, circular economy, sustainable consumption and gender equality, making them a key player in China’s sustainability ecosystem.
Logo of the Impact Hub Shanghai.
Source: the company.
My internship
During my two-month internship, I worked as a Business Development and Marketing Assistant, supporting projects related to sustainable consumption, circular economy, and inclusive innovation. This role allowed me to engage in diverse tasks, from industry research and branding to event planning and client communication, while also exploring the intersection of sustainability and finance.
My missions
As an intern, I was involved in several key activities:
- Business Development: I conducted industry research and prepared three industry reports on topics like sustainable consumption and the transition to net zero. This involved analyzing market trends, identifying opportunities for innovation, and summarizing findings for internal and external stakeholders.
- Branding & Communication: I contributed to the development of an Integrated Marketing Communication plan and wrote/edited WeChat manuscripts to promote Impact Hub Shanghai’s initiatives. This required creativity, attention to detail, and an understanding of the target audience.
- Event Planning: I supported the planning and execution of three events, including the RISE UP! Sustainable Life Fest, which aimed to raise awareness about sustainable living. I also assisted in organizing two offline events, which involved coordinating with partners, managing logistics, and ensuring smooth execution.
Required skills and knowledge
This internship was an excellent opportunity for students like me, who are passionate about sustainability and business innovation. While it didn’t require specialized expertise, the role demanded a strong foundation in business concepts, research skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to new challenges.
Key skills included:
- Analytical Thinking: Interpreting data and trends to support decision-making.
- Communication: Crafting clear and compelling messages for diverse audiences.
- Teamwork: Collaborating with colleagues and external partners to achieve common goals.
- Adaptability: Learning new tools and approaches to address emerging challenges.
Additionally, staying updated on sustainability trends and understanding the broader context of social and environmental issues were crucial for contributing effectively to the team’s efforts.
What I learned
This internship was a transformative experience, providing me with a deeper understanding of sustainable business practices and the role of innovation in driving positive change. I gained practical skills in research, branding, and event management, which are applicable to future roles in sustainability and business development.
One of the most valuable lessons was the importance of collaboration and cross-sector partnerships in addressing complex global challenges. Working with diverse stakeholders, from entrepreneurs to corporate leaders, taught me how to navigate different perspectives and find common ground for impactful solutions.
Related financial concepts
I detail below three financial concepts related to my internship: Impact Investing & Sustainable Investment, Circular Economy & Net-Zero Transition, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & Branding.
Impact Investing & Sustainable Investment
Exposure to Impact Hub Shanghai’s investment arm deepened my understanding of how impact investing firms assess sustainability-driven ventures. I gained insight into how capital is allocated to businesses that generate financial returns while driving positive social and environmental outcomes.
Circular Economy & Net-Zero Transition
My work on industry reports deepened my understanding of business models focused on resource efficiency and carbon neutrality. My work on the RISE UP! Sustainable Life Fest highlighted the importance of sustainable consumption in reducing environmental impact. Through this project, I learned how businesses can align their strategies with sustainable consumption principles, such as offering reusable products, reducing packaging waste, and promoting circular economy practices.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & Branding
My internship also exposed me to the broader financial ecosystem that supports sustainability. From green bonds to ESG investing, I gained insights into how financial markets are evolving to prioritize sustainability. I gained insight into how companies integrate sustainability into their brand identity and business strategies to create positive social impact.
Why should I be interested in this post?
My internship at Impact Hub Shanghai reinforced my belief in the power of business and finance to drive positive change and equipped me with the tools to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future if you are also interested in sustainable and responsible investment concepts.
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Useful resources
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)
World Economic Forum What are green bonds and why is this market growing so fast?
Global Impact Investing Network What you need to know about impact investing?
United Nations Development Programme Harnessing Financial Instruments for Impact Investing
About the author
The article was written in April 2025 by Yirun WANG (ESSEC Business School, Master in Strategy & Management of International Business (SMIB), 2024-2025).