Transforming Futures: The Impact of Salesforce India’s Virtual Internship Program

In a fast-evolving job market, gaining the right skills provides students with greater access to career opportunities and long-term employability. Since its launch in 2022, the Salesforce-supported Virtual Internship Programme (VIP) has enabled over 5,000 learners across India to take their first steps into the technology industry.

These aren’t just placements; they’re success stories of college students translating their learning into action and becoming key contributors to real-world digital transformation projects. The latest cohort of the program will be concluded in August 2025. 

The Virtual Internship Programme, launched with AICTE, SmartBridge, and various ecosystem partners, brings together government bodies, academic institutions, and industry organisations to create a clear pathway from education to employment in India. 

This approach has been key in helping businesses identify and develop future-ready talent, as highlighted by Nalini Krishnan, Head – Sourcing, Competency & Governance – Salesforce Practice at TCS:

“TCS is extremely grateful for our strong partnership with Salesforce and AICTE on the SFVIP programme. The programme has helped us identify students who are investing in digital technologies and differentiating themselves as future-ready leaders. At TCS, we have always believed that talent can come from everywhere, and this programme plays a vital role in bridging the demand-supply gap with a right-skilled talent pool from the ecosystem.” 

Creating pathways to opportunity

VIP is more than a skilling initiative. It’s a launchpad for students, equipping them to succeed in the digital economy regardless of their academic background or location. Based on the latest IDC Report, the Salesforce Economy powered by AI will create a net gain of 11.6 million jobs & $2.02T in business revenues between 2022 – 2028. 

For industry partners, it’s a solution that helps address workforce challenges. For learners, it provides a bridge to meaningful and future-ready careers. 

“Through the Virtual Internship Programme in India, we are unlocking opportunities for the next generation of leaders. By bridging the gap between education and employment, we are not just teaching Salesforce skills; we are empowering students to shape their futures in the digital economy. This programme is about fostering a more inclusive workforce, where talent knows no boundaries and success is within reach for all.”  — Leah McGowen-Hare, SVP, Trailblazer Community

A structured, hands-on learning Experience

Learners participating in VIP follow a well-defined, experiential curriculum delivered through Trailhead, Salesforce’s free online learning platform. They gain a foundational understanding of Salesforce, work on real-world projects, and develop essential soft skills. The programme also includes expert-led sessions, guided mentorship, and access to certification pathways that prepare them to lead in the workplace.

“The VIP programme has been instrumental in bridging the gap between academic courses and industry demands. The programme provides well-paced learning and enables students to upskill effectively, reducing the training required for project onboarding.” — Bibekananda Rath, Salesforce Practice Partner, Deloitte.

From learning to meaningful careers

A significant number of VIP graduates have secured roles with partners across Salesforce’s ecosystem illustrating how coordinated efforts can drive inclusive growth. For partners, VIP delivers a pool of pre-skilled, job-ready talent that reduces recruitment time and hiring costs.

“This is a great opportunity for students to level up their skills, unlock new possibilities, and unleash their potential.” — Kalpana Kudlingar, Head – Early Careers and Campus Relations, Persistent.

Students from a wide range of regions, including many from smaller cities and towns, have joined the programme, demonstrating that with the right access and guidance, talent can emerge from anywhere.

By bridging the gap between education and employment, we are not just teaching Salesforce skills; we are empowering students to shape their futures in the digital economy.

A shared vision for impact and inclusion

Organisations are invited to join as partners, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of talent and innovation. The forthcoming cohort of VIP will create new opportunities for both learners and organisations, paving the way for the workforce of tomorrow. 

Learn more:

• Learn more about the Salesforce supported Virtual Internship Program
• Interested in becoming a Salesforce Workforce Development Partner? Reach out to us here