Internship | MSc Graduation Internship: Business Models for Rural Connectivity

At the Strategic Business Analysis (SBA) department of TNO, we focus on analysing, supporting and bringing technological innovations to the market with the intention of creating economic, social, and sustainable impact. We do so by combining and integrating knowledge on technology, private business, and behaviour in many inter-disciplinary teams as part of projects for organizations, local and national governments, and European institutions. We participate in the COMMECT project (https://www.horizoneurope-commect.eu/), funded by the Horizon Europe program. The goal of the project is to deploy connectivity solutions (like 5G, private networks, and long-range networks) in rural areas, reducing the urban-rural digital divide. This improved connectivity holds potential for societal and environmental benefits. Our role is to explore challenges faced by rural users and stakeholders, the role of connectivity solutions in overcoming these challenges, value dynamics in rural digital ecosystems, and the business models supporting practical value deployment.

We seek an MSc student in their final phase, interested in studying rural connectivity business models. This involves shaping business models to support rural connectivity solutions due to challenges like sparse populations, diverse landscapes, and limited infrastructure. In rural settings, returns on investment are uncertain, involving complex stakeholder engagement and varied connectivity types. Understanding essential rural traits, user needs, and solution characteristics is vital for effective business model design, aiding connectivity access in these areas and benefiting stakeholders' societal and environmental goals.

During this internship, you'll collaborate with TNO professionals in various fields like business engineering, ICT, and policy-making, incorporating their expertise into your research. You'll engage with COMMECT project partners to uncover rural stakeholders' needs, barriers, and opportunities. These interactions will validate your work on adapting business models to rural challenges and user needs.

Your project adds to digital business model literature, revealing insights into shaping business models for rural connectivity solutions. Your research delves into the synergy of concepts like collaborative business modeling, connectivity solutions, and societal/environmental impact.

We seek a student who:

• Is in the final phase of a master's degree with strong grasp of strategic/management theory, inter-organizational collaboration, and innovation.
• Comes from Business and Entrepreneurship, Strategic Management, Innovation Management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or related fields.
• Has interview experience, and applied research affinity.
• Is broad-minded, curious, and proactive.
• Explores how tech innovations create real-world value and can be marketed.
• Converts abstract ideas into understandable concepts for others.
• Thinks analytically and communicates clearly.
• Has moderate Dutch proficiency (B2) for limited Dutch partner interaction.
• Can be present in The Hague office at least twice weekly for collaboration with TNO professionals and supervisors.

You want to work on the precursor of your career; a work placement gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Naturally, we provide suitable work placement compensation.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.