Development & Fundraising Intern

Sponsor a Pet is a fast-growing fundraising platform that helps animal nonprofits share their stories and raise the resources they need to save lives. We’re looking for a Development & Fundraising Intern who loves animals, enjoys connecting with people, and wants hands-on experience in nonprofit development, donor relations, and fundraising strategy.

What You’ll Do

Identify New Funding Opportunities: Research companies, foundations, and individual donors who may want to sponsor animal nonprofits or support fundraising campaigns. Help build prospect lists for grants, sponsorships, and major gifts.

Engage & Build Relationships: Reach out through email, phone, and LinkedIn to introduce Sponsor a Pet and set up discovery calls. Learn how to tailor outreach to different donor and sponsor audiences.

Support Campaign Development: Assist in creating fundraising materials such as presentations, sponsorship decks, and donor outreach templates. Work with nonprofit partners to strengthen their campaigns and donor messaging.

Participate in Development & Fundraising Meetings: Sit in on calls with potential donors, corporate sponsors, and nonprofit leaders. Take notes, help prepare follow-ups, and learn how to qualify funding opportunities.

Assist with Proposals & Stewardship: Help draft sponsorship packages, funding proposals, and thank-you communications. Contribute to donor stewardship efforts that build long-term relationships.

Maintain Organization & Tracking: Keep CRM records up to date with donor contacts, outreach activities, and campaign progress. Provide weekly progress summaries to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

What We’re Looking For

Excellent communication skills — you enjoy talking to people and building relationships.

Self-starter attitude — you take initiative and are eager to learn.

Interest in nonprofit development, fundraising, philanthropy, or marketing.

Comfortable using email, LinkedIn, and basic software (we’ll train you on the rest).

A genuine passion for animals and making a difference in your community.

Nice to Have (But Not Required)

Familiarity with CRM or email tools like MailerLite, HubSpot, or Salesforce.

Experience with fundraising, sponsorship outreach, or volunteer work.

Previous development, ambassador, or campus fundraising experience.

Compensation & Credits

Commission-Based: Earn commission on sponsorships and fundraising campaigns you help secure, plus bonuses on renewals.

College Credit: Internship is eligible for academic credit (check with your school).

Professional Training: Receive coaching in nonprofit development, fundraising strategy, and relationship building — valuable career skills for the nonprofit and social impact sectors.