KIP Spring 2027 - Development Intern - Illinois Policy Institute

The Koch Internship Program (KIP) is a paid experiential learning program run by Stand Together Fellowships that offers professional development, leadership training, and meaningful work experience at non-profits tackling some of our nation's most pressing policy challenges all over the United States. Early-career professionals including undergraduate/graduate/law students and recent graduates are encouraged to apply. Eligible candidates will be geographically located in and authorized to work in the United States through the duration of the program. Successful candidates will interview with both our non-profit partner organizations and Stand Together Fellowships staff, so we strongly encourage you to begin the admissions process early!
The Illinois Policy Institute is seeking highly motivated, mission-aligned development intern to support our growing fundraising and external relations efforts. This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to learn how a leading state-based think tank engages donors, advances its mission, and grows a world-class development program. About the Role
The development intern will work closely with our development and external relations team to support donor research, event preparation, gift processing, stewardship, and strategic outreach. This role is ideal for students interested in public policy, nonprofit leadership, fundraising, communications, or relationship-driven work.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct donor and prospect research to support gift officer strategy
• Assist with preparation of donor meetings, briefing materials, and follow-up communications
• Support data entry, gift acknowledgment, and CRM maintenance
• Help coordinate fundraising events, roundtables, and donor briefings
• Draft and edit donor-facing materials, including impact updates and organizational reports
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to development strategy projects
• Provide general support to the External Relations team as needed

Qualifications

Strong written and verbal communication skills

High attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects

Professionalism, discretion, and a commitment to high-quality work

Interest in public policy, nonprofit development, communications, or business

Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with Salesforce is a plus

Self-starter mindset and eagerness to learn in a fast-paced environment

What You Will Gain

Practical experience in nonprofit fundraising and donor relations

Exposure to strategic planning, philanthropy, and policy advocacy

Mentorship from seasoned development professionals

A strong portfolio of writing, research, and project work

The opportunity to meaningfully support an organization shaping policy and expanding freedom in Illinois

Stand Together Fellowships believes that diversity in experiences, perspectives, knowledge and ideas fuels creativity, broadens knowledge, and helps drive success. Our admissions office treats all program participants and applicants with honesty, dignity, respect and sensitivity. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of color, race, religion, religious creed, sex, gender or gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, ancestry, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy (including medical needs which may arise from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), military and veteran status, genetic information, marital or familial status, political affiliation, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.