2026 Independent Sector Internship Program - Partnerships Intern

Job Description

Job Description

About IS

Independent Sector (IS) is the nation's membership organization for nonprofits and philanthropy. Our vision is for a charitable sector that is healthy, trusted, and equitable and helps all people in the United States thrive in a vibrant civil society and just democracy. We unite nonprofits and philanthropy to strengthen the charitable sector, identifying structural challenges and mobilizing around policy and practice solutions. Independent Sector aims for a sector where charitable organizations are financially robust; powered by a thriving workforce that reflects the communities they serve; trusted, well-governed, and effective; and informed and active advocates.

The IS 2026 Internship Program is designed to:

• Provide students with hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector and exposure to non-profit operations.
• Offer mentorship and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
• Foster a collaborative learning environment that encourages innovation and professional growth.
• Support interns in making meaningful contributions to Independent Sector's mission and initiatives.

We are seeking an intern to join our Partnerships team, with a focus on Corporate Relations. This position is responsible for building and managing partnerships with corporate funders and supporting revenue generation efforts that align with Independent Sector's mission and priorities.

Our Partnerships department is responsible for securing funding including corporate and foundation support to sustain Independent Sector's mission. The intern will support the Corporate Relations team by conducting prospect research for corporate and institutional funders for the National Summit, assisting with funding applications, coordinating internal sponsor and exhibitor fulfillment, and providing updates to confirmed sponsors and partners ahead of the National Summit. The intern will also have opportunities to expand their knowledge in various other areas within Partnerships. 

Direct development or fundraising experience is not required but is preferred. We are looking for candidates with a strong interest in nonprofit work, philanthropy, partnerships, fundraising and relationship-building, along with the following skills and experience:

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Experience working as a member of a team
• Proactive mindset and willingness to learn
• Experience or interest in event planning, fundraising, research, grant writing, and sponsor communications

Eligibility Requirements

• Junior or senior undergraduate or graduate student with a 3.0+ GPA.
• Majors: Nonprofit management, communications, public relations, business administration, public administration, English, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience or interest in event planning, fundraising, research, grant writing, and sponsor communications
• Program runs from June 2026-December 2026. Interns must be available for the duration of this time. 
• Must be available for 15 hours per week during the program duration.

Why Choose IS

• Competitively Paid Internship Program
• Professional Development Opportunities-Access to mentorship, career coaching, networking events, and skill-building workshops.
• Opportunities to make a meaningful Impact in the non-profit sector. Interns will contribute to projects that drive real change in communities.

Application Requirements

• Resume Copy (resume experience will be assessed based on academic background, relevant coursework, leadership roles, previous internships, volunteer experience, and demonstrated interest in the nonprofit sector or related fields).
• A Cover Letter
• Copy of transcript (unofficial transcripts accepted).
• One letter of recommendation from a professor, employer, or mentor.

The application documents must be uploaded as a ONE PAGE PDF (Resume, Transcript and Letter of Recommendation). Please upload under the "Attach Resume" section. All applications must be submitted by Monday, June 8!

We look forward to reviewing your application!

The selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a background check.