Fundraising and Grant Writing Intern
Institution
Job Summary
Location: Columbia, MO (Hybrid – Remote and MOBIUS Central Office)
Duration: June/July 2026 (start and end dates can be negotiated)
Compensation: 20 hours per week for 8 weeks (about 2 months); $25 per hour; eligible for academic credit(s)
About MOBIUS
MOBIUS is a consortium of academic, public, and special libraries committed to expanding access to information resources, fostering collaboration, and supporting innovation across member institutions.
Position Overview
MOBIUS is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented graduate or undergraduate intern with interests in fundraising development and grant writing to serve as a Summer Fundraising and Grant Writing Intern. This internship will focus on identifying and organizing potential funding opportunities from foundations, corporations, and grant-making entities. The internship offers hands-on experience in nonprofit and consortial development work within a regional academic and public library consortium.
The intern’s primary responsibility will be to develop an initial, research-based corporate and foundation fundraising strategy for MOBIUS. The project will support MOBIUS’s long-term sustainability and strategic priorities by identifying potential funding partners and outlining approaches for engagement.
Learning Objectives
Through this internship, the student will:
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Gain hands-on experience in grant research and funding landscapes
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Develop skills in professional research, data organization, and reporting
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Build familiarity with nonprofit and library consortium operations
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Produce a professional work product suitable for inclusion in a portfolio or capstone experience
Preferred Qualifications
Coursework or prior experience related to fundraising, grant writing, or development
Familiarity with higher education, libraries, or nonprofit organizations
Comfort working with publicly available funding databases and organizational websites
Business related coursework
Ability to work independently and manage a project-based assignment
Attention to detail and ability to synthesize information into clear recommendations
Strong research, writing and analytical skills
Experience with spreadsheets or database tools (e.g., Excel, Google Sheets)
A current undergraduate or graduate student in a relevant field such as Fundraising or Philanthropic Studies, Nonprofit Management, Business, Library Science, or Public Administration
Key Responsibilities
Research and identify potential funding sources, including:
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Foundations (local, regional, and national)
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Corporate philanthropic programs and sponsorship opportunities
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Other relevant grant-making organizations and public or private funding opportunities
Create a prioritized prospect list with brief profiles, including giving focus, typical award size (if available), geographic interests, and alignment with MOBIUS priorities.
Develop an initial corporate and foundation fundraising strategy for MOBIUS, which may include:
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Recommended funding priorities and themes
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Suggested approaches for corporate partnerships and sponsorships
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Timing considerations and next steps for proposal development
Summarize findings and recommendations in a written report and/or presentation for MOBIUS leadership
Deliverables
By the end of internship, the intern will produce:
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A researched list of potential foundations, corporations, and other funding opportunities
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An initial written fundraising strategy tailored to MOBIUS
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A final summary report or presentation outlining findings and recommended next steps
How to Apply
Applicants should submit a brief cover letter describing their interest in fundraising or grant writing, and a resume to the MOBIUS Executive Director at donna@mobiusconsortium.org by May 15, 2026