(1) Connect college and university students, recent graduates, and veterans with small innovative businesses in the high-growth technology sector through internships;

(2) Encourage high-achieving students at institutions of higher education in the State to remain in the State after graduation;

(3) Increase student understanding of employment opportunities in the State;

(4) Create connections between students and community business leaders and entrepreneurs and develop opportunities for student involvement in communities;

(5) Assist small technology-based businesses in developing internship programs and recruiting future employees; and

(6) Foster business retention and development, job creation, workforce development, and new investment in the State.