Independent Sector 2026 Internship Program
Building Future Talent in the Nonprofit Sector
About Independent Sector
Independent Sector (IS) is the national membership organization that connects, strengthens, and advocates for nonprofits and philanthropies. 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.
Program Overview
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.
In 2026, we are looking to expand our internship program by adding one intern to the Partnerships department. Our Partnerships department is responsible for securing and stewarding corporate sponsorships and fundraising support to sustain Independent Sector’s mission.
The intern will support the Corporate Relations team by researching prospective corporate funders for the 2026 and 2027 National Summits and general organizational support, assisting with sponsorship applications, coordinating internal sponsor and exhibitor fulfillment, and providing updates to confirmed sponsors and partners ahead of the 2026 National Summit. The intern will also have opportunities to expand their knowledge in various areas within Partnerships.
Eligibility Requirements
- Senior undergraduate or graduate student with a 3.0+ GPA.
- Majors: Nonprofit management, public policy, communications, business administration, public administration or related fields.
- Program runs from May 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 Independent Sector
- 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 nonprofit sector. Interns will contribute to projects that drive real change in communities.
Intern Selection Process
- Project-based matching: Departments submit project proposals for review and have the opportunity to interview interns.
- Application and selection: Interns are chosen based on project alignment and overall needs
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).
- Copy of transcript (Unofficial transcripts accepted).
- One letter of recommendation from a professor, employer, or mentor.
The application documents must be uploaded as a SINGLE PDF (Resume, Transcript and Letter of Recommendation). Please upload under the “Attach Resume” section. All applications must be submitted by Monday, March 30!
We look forward to reviewing your application!
The selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a background check.
Timeline
- March 3 – Application Opens
- March 30 – Application Closes
- April 1 – Application Reviews and Interviews
- April 16-20 – Selection
- May 12 – Start Date
