World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity and human well-being. We are working to address six critical challenges that the world must overcome this decade in order to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water and sustainable cities. 

We are passionate. We value our diversity of interests, skills and backgrounds. We have a flexible work environment. And we share a common goal to catalyze change that will improve the lives of people. Our shared ideals are at the core of our approach. They include: integrity, innovation, urgency, independence and respect. 

The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps and analysis to solve the world’s greatest environment and international development challenges ,and improve people’s lives. We work with leaders in government, business and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact. 

We have been growing rapidly: our staff has doubled in size over the past 5 years and our operating budget is now $100 million. Founded in 1982, WRI has a global staff of nearly 700 people with work spanning 50 countries. We have offices in Brazil , China , Europe , India , Indonesia , Mexico and the United States . 

Overview 

World Resources Institute is seeking an outstanding, organized Development (Fundraising) Intern to support the Development Department with fundraising and stewardship efforts for major funder groups such as foundations, US, and foreign governments. The intern will work closely with Development’s Foundations and Government Relations teams to research donors, develop briefings and reporting documents, manage the CRM (Salesforce), and support the proposal development process, among other activities. The intern may also provide logistical, event, and administrative support to the Corporate and Individual sector teams. 

The Development Department is responsible for coordinating all fundraising across the institute, as well as raising funds. The intern will contribute to these efforts by supporting two of the Institute’s largest funder groups, foundations & governments. This internship will provide significant insight into and understanding of various aspects of non-profit fundraising in a variety of sectors. The intern will have the opportunity to understand the proposal development process from start to finish—from finding the call for proposals to submitting a proposal. The intern will also learn how WRI’s funding mix and development priorities overlap with the priorities of major funder groups (i.e. foundations, US and foreign governments). The intern will have the opportunity to work with and learn from various teams across the institute, as well as strengthen their research, writing, and time management skills. 

Responsibilities 

The intern will gain experience in the following areas: 

• Conducting short- and long-term research
• Drafting briefings on prospective donors to WRI—including foundations, US/foreign government agencies, multilateral institutions, corporations, and individuals using online sources
• Producing communications informing donors of WRI’s work
• Monitoring government web portals to identify prospective calls for proposals
• Updating donor database (Salesforce) and donor background sheets
• Organizing and attending meetings with external partners
• Developing documents outlining government sector processes
• Assisting with donor mailings and special events
• Working across teams and juggling competing priorities
• Supporting Development Coordinators as needed

Qualifications 

Degree: Currently pursuing (senior in college only) or completed Bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree preferred. 

• Excellent research, writing and organizational skills
• Must be proficient with complete Microsoft Office suite
• Applicants should possess a high degree of professionalism and have a strong attention to detail
• Strong time management skills and comfort juggling multiple projects. Position involves coordinating with up to five sectors simultaneously
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently as well as part of a team
• Familiarity and experience with fundraising, database management (specifically Salesforce), and grant writing experience is a plus
• Interest in environmental issues and sustainable development a plus
• WRI does not sponsor interns for visas of any kind. Must have authorization to work in the U.S. to be eligible for this position.

Final candidate will be required to take a writing test 

Salary: This is a paid intern position with an hourly rate based on experience. 

Duration: 6 months 

Start/End Months: August – Jan 

How to Apply 

Qualified applicants must apply online at careers.wri.org to be considered. 

The World Resources Institute ( http://www.wri.org ) is an environmental and development research and policy organization that creates solutions to protect the Earth and improve people’s lives. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, it is WRI’s policy to recruit, hire, and provide opportunities for advancement in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, parental status, protected veteran status, or disability. WRI’s global agenda requires a staff that is diverse – with respect to race, gender, cultural, and international background. Diverse perspectives and experience enhance the way WRI selects and approaches issues, as well as the creativity and applicability of WRI’s policy research and analysis. WRI, therefore, encourages applications from U.S. minorities, persons from other countries (especially developing nations), and from women of all backgrounds. 

About WRI 

Established in 1982, WRI is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization respected globally by policymakers, non-governmental organizations, and corporate leaders. 

WRI’s reputation is grounded in its excellent analysis, non-partisan approach, and high-impact results. We measure our success based on how our work helps to create real-world change on the ground—an approach we call “Managing for Results.” 

WRI’s work is united by and driven by our values: Innovation, Integrity, Urgency, Independence, and Respect. 

WRI fosters a culture of innovative ideas, working collaboratively, and thinking independently. WRI employees are driven by the organization’s mission and have the satisfaction of helping to create a more prosperous and healthy planet. 

Learn more about our organization at www.wri.org .