The mentored internship programme (MIP) enables coders to apply what they learn in theory to “real world problems” and gain self-confidence and skills in self-marketing. It seeks to help local businesses and communities "grow their own timber" when it comes to the development, adaptation and customisation of Free and Open Source Software. Our aim is to  qualify FOSS developers and experts of IT-associations, training institutions as well as other relevant change agents in the development of innovative local FOSS solutions.