KIP Spring 2027 - Development Intern - Grassroot Institute of Hawaii

Stand Together • Honolulu, HI

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The Grassroot Institute of Hawaii seeks a motivated, detail-oriented development intern to support its fundraising and development operations. Working closely with the director of development, the intern will gain hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, donor research, development strategy, direct marketing, event planning and supporter engagement. The role supports the organization’s efforts to build donor relationships, identify funding opportunities and develop resources for its mission. As the development operation grows, the intern may take on increasing responsibility and contribute to projects that support organizational growth.

The position is designed for someone eager to learn practical skills in nonprofit fundraising, relationship management and organizational growth. The intern will gain experience with donor and prospect research, major-gift fundraising, donor cultivation, foundation and corporate fundraising, direct mail, grant development, donor stewardship, event planning, nonprofit financial operations, development strategy and interaction with senior nonprofit leaders.

The position is primarily intended to be on-site at Grassroot’s main office in downtown Honolulu, though remote work may be considered for an exceptional candidate. Reliable commuting to the office is preferred. The internship is part of the paid Koch Internship Program, which requires attendance at all online and on-site program activities. Participants may work approximately 32 hours per week as full-time participants or approximately 24 hours per week as part-time participants.

Requirements

• Alignment with the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii’s vision and mission, and interest in individual liberty, economic freedom and accountable government.
• Strong research, writing and analytical skills, including the ability to produce clear, accurate and readable prose.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to organize information accurately and efficiently.
• Ability to communicate professionally and confidently with donors, community leaders, business professionals and nonprofit partners.
• Ability to identify and cultivate useful information sources through online research, phone calls, email and community outreach.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with a small, fast-moving team.
• Good judgment and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Proficiency with common office and productivity software.
• Eligible candidates must be located in and authorized to work in the United States for the duration of the program.
• Attendance at the entirety of the online and on-site KIP programming is required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with donor databases such as Salesforce, spreadsheets and prospect-research tools.
• Previous experience with fundraising, nonprofit organizations, events, research, communications and/or customer service.
• Current college students, recent graduates and graduate students are encouraged to apply.
• Ability to reliably commute to Grassroot’s main office in downtown Honolulu.
• Willingness to work primarily on-site; remote work may be considered for an exceptional candidate.

Responsibilities

• Conduct general and detailed donor and prospect research on individuals, foundations, corporations and other potential supporters.
• Assist with identifying and developing prospects whose interests align with Grassroot’s mission and policy priorities.
• Prepare donor briefings, prospect profiles, research reports and other development materials.
• Maintain accurate donor records, databases and development files.
• Support the director of development with grant research, grant applications, donor correspondence and fundraising projects.
• Assist with donor communications and stewardship, including correspondence, thank-you letters, invitations and supporter materials.
• Help plan and execute fundraising events, donor meetings and other organizational activities, including preparation, registration, logistics and follow-up.
• Assist the finance team with development-related donation, reporting, reconciliation and financial-information projects as appropriate.
• Assist Grassroot staff with special projects, research assignments and other tasks supporting organizational growth.
• Participate in staff calls, leadership team meetings and development meetings as appropriate.
• Handle confidential donor and financial information with discretion and professionalism.
• Maintain regular attendance, punctuality and reliable communication.
• Communicate professionally with new contacts by phone and in person.

Benefits

• Paid program stipend of $7,500 for full-time participants working approximately 32 hours per week at the partner organization, or $5,500 for part-time participants working approximately 24 hours per week.
• Professional development, leadership training and meaningful work experience.
• Hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, donor research, development strategy, direct marketing, event planning and supporter engagement.
• Opportunities to take on additional responsibilities and potentially continue working with the organization as skills and experience develop.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed