UNFPA Fundraising and Development Intern 2026: Individual Giving Opportunity in New York
Overview
The Fundraising and Development Intern position supports the Individual Giving Programme within the Private Sector and Civil Society Branch of the Division for External Relations at the United Nations Population Fund. This 24-week placement provides participants with exposure to international development, digital fundraising, and donor engagement. The work schedule is full-time, and the arrangement may be in-person or remote, although applications are restricted to candidates applying from within the hiring unit’s duty station.
Who can apply
Applicants must satisfy at least one of the established education pathways. This includes having completed at least one academic year of a first university degree, being enrolled in a postgraduate degree, having recently graduated from a qualifying university programme with the intention to begin the internship within one year of graduation, or participating in a postgraduate professional trainee programme where the internship forms a part of the curriculum. Candidates must demonstrate an interest in development, have proficiency in at least one UN working language between English and French, and possess fluency in an official language of the UNFPA office. Additional advantages include studies in communications, marketing, international relations, development studies, business, social sciences, data science, or related fields.
What you get
Selected participants gain practical experience in supporter-focused writing, donor stewardship, digital fundraising, and understanding how individual giving programmes attract and retain donors. While the internship does not provide a salary or remuneration, eligible interns who receive no financial support from a government, university, foundation, scholarship, or other programme may receive a stipend intended to help cover basic daily expenses based on their agreed place of work.
Requirements
Participants must arrange and pay for their own living expenses, accommodation, and travel costs, unless these are covered by a nominating institution or the intern themselves. Medical insurance is mandatory, and applicants must submit proof of coverage before starting the placement, as UNFPA does not provide medical insurance. Candidates should exhibit strong organizational, analytical, and writing skills, alongside attention to detail, teamwork, initiative, sound judgment, and cultural adaptability. English fluency is expected, while knowledge of additional languages serves as an advantage.
How to apply
Interested candidates must submit a comprehensive two-page curriculum vitae alongside a motivation letter that is under 400 words. Applications must be sent via email with the subject line formatted as Application for Individual Giving Intern followed by the applicant's full name, directed to the address listed in the official vacancy announcement.
Key dates
The deadline for submitting applications is 30 November 2026 at 23:59 New York time. Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted for an interview.