Fundraising Intern

LOCATION:

Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN

TYPE:

Internship, part-time (15-20 hours per week)

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested candidates MUST submit a resume to contact@futurefreespeech.com. Please include “Fundraising Intern Application – [Your Name]” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until April 30, 2025.

Click Here to Apply
ABOUT THE FUTURE OF FREE SPEECH:

The Future of Free Speech is not just another nonprofit—it’s a dynamic think tank at the forefront of defending free expression in an increasingly polarized world. We’re a diverse team of advocates, researchers, and change-makers dedicated to promoting open dialogue, challenging censorship, and protecting the fundamental right to speak and think freely. At The Future of Free Speech, we believe that a robust and resilient culture of free speech must be the foundation for the future of any free, democratic society.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Are you ready to fight for freedom of expression and make a lasting impact in the world? The Future of Free Speech is looking for a passionate and driven Fundraising Intern to help us secure the financial resources we need to protect free speech in democracies and authoritarian states alike.

Your work will directly support our mission to safeguard free speech worldwide. From writing grant proposals to building relationships with prospective donors, your contributions will help us champion open dialogue and defend free expression.

Reporting to the Director of Development, you will play a vital role in supporting our fundraising initiatives and ensuring the sustainability of our programs.

Responsibilities:
  • Grant Proposal Support: Research, prepare, and review grant proposals to grantmaking entities.
  • Donor Outreach: Conduct direct outreach to prospective donors via email and phone to schedule introductory visits.
  • Relationship Building: Initiate and nurture relationships with potential donors, demonstrating curiosity and a genuine interest in their priorities.
  • Follow-Up: Maintain timely and professional follow-up with prospects, ensuring ongoing communication and engagement.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with the communications department to align messaging and support integrated fundraising and communications strategies.
Ideal Candidate Attributes:
  • Passionate: Demonstrates a genuine interest in advancing The Future of Free Speech’s mission.
  • Persistence: Ability to remain resilient in the face of rejection or setbacks.
  • Initiative: Willingness to proactively reach out to potential donors and engage in meaningful conversations.
  • Organization: Strong skills in managing follow-ups and tracking outreach efforts.
  • Writing Proficiency: Exceptional writing and general communication skills.
  • Interpersonal Skills: High conversational ability, asking insightful questions, and demonstrating sincere interest in others.
Qualifications:
  • Strong writing skills with an ability to draft clear, concise, and persuasive communications.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills and comfort with phone and email outreach.
  • Self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Organizational skills to manage follow-ups and maintain detailed records.
  • Genuine interest in nonprofit work, free speech advocacy, or development/fundraising.
  • No specific educational background required—open to students, recent graduates, or anyone with a passion for the mission.
What You’ll Gain:
  • Hands-on experience in grant writing and prospect research.
  • Valuable skills in donor outreach, relationship management, and nonprofit development.
  • Opportunities to collaborate with a dynamic and mission-driven team dedicated to advancing free speech.
  • Build a professional network and gain exposure to potential career opportunities in the nonprofit and advocacy sectors.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This is an unpaid internship, offering a unique chance to gain practical experience and make a tangible impact in the field of free speech advocacy. Ideal for students pursuing degrees in communications, nonprofit management, political science, or related fields.

At The Future of Free Speech, we celebrate diverse voices and foster an inclusive culture where everyone’s ideas contribute to our mission. As an intern, you’ll be a valued member of our team, collaborating with experts and making meaningful contributions from day one.

If you are ready to take on this challenge, learn invaluable skills, and contribute to a cause that matters, we want to hear from you. Apply today and join us in the fight for free speech!

The Future of Free Speech is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Click Here to Apply