The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is now accepting applications for its Paid Prospect Research Internship, offering students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain professional experience with one of the world’s leading conservation organizations. Based in Washington, D.C., this six-month hybrid internship provides hands-on experience in donor research, prospect intelligence, fundraising analytics, and executive briefing preparation while paying USD 20.50–22.50 per hour.
This internship is ideal for students interested in conservation, nonprofit fundraising, research, data analysis, business, sustainability, and international development.
About the WWF Prospect Research Internship
Founded in 1961, the World Wildlife Fund operates in more than 100 countries, partnering with governments, businesses, and communities to conserve biodiversity, protect wildlife, combat climate change, and promote sustainable development.
The Prospect Research Intern will join WWF’s Prospect Intelligence and Analytics Team within the Development Department, supporting fundraising and donor engagement through high-quality research and analytical work.
Internship Summary
- Organization: World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
- Position: Prospect Research Intern
- Location: Washington, D.C., USA
- Work Schedule: Hybrid (2 in-office days per week)
- Duration: 6 months
- Hours: 21 hours per week
- Compensation:
- USD 20.50/hour (Undergraduate students)
- USD 22.50/hour (Graduate students)
- Relocation Assistance: Not provided
- Visa Sponsorship: Not available
Key Responsibilities
Selected interns will:
- Conduct prospect and donor research using public and subscription databases
- Prepare executive-level briefing materials
- Develop donor profiles and research reports
- Assist with fundraising intelligence projects
- Maintain and update donor information within internal databases
- Draft, edit, and proofread research materials
- Support high-priority development initiatives
- Assist with administrative and project coordination activities
- Handle confidential donor information professionally
- Support strategic donor identification and relationship-building efforts
Learning Opportunities
Interns will gain valuable experience in:
- Prospect research methodologies
- Donor intelligence and fundraising analytics
- Executive briefing preparation
- Research writing and editing
- Data management and CRM systems
- Professional communication
- Project coordination
- Nonprofit development operations
Participants will also have access to WWF programming that provides greater insight into global conservation initiatives and professional networking opportunities.
Technical Skills and Tools
Interns will gain exposure to professional platforms including:
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Blackbaud CRM
- SharePoint
- Bloomberg
- iWave
- LexisNexis
- Altrata
- Candid
- Internal WWF research systems
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should be currently pursuing:
- Associate Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Graduate Degree
Relevant fields include:
- Business Administration
- Corporate Sustainability
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Policy
- Sustainable Development
- Natural Resources
- Supply Chain Management
Students from other academic backgrounds are also encouraged to apply.
Desired Skills
Successful applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong research and analytical abilities
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- High attention to detail
- Strong organizational skills
- Time management abilities
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Professional judgment and confidentiality
- Problem-solving skills
- Adaptability in fast-paced environments
WWF Core Values
Candidates should demonstrate alignment with WWF’s core values:
- Courage
- Integrity
- Respect
- Collaboration
These values guide WWF’s global conservation mission and workplace culture.
Compensation
The internship offers competitive hourly pay:
- USD 20.50/hour for undergraduate students
- USD 22.50/hour for graduate students
Working 21 hours per week over six months, interns receive valuable paid professional experience while building skills relevant to careers in conservation, nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, research, and international development.
Work Authorization
Applicants must:
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States
- Complete employment eligibility verification upon hire
Please note:
- Visa sponsorship is not available
- WWF cannot sponsor employment visas for internship positions
Application Requirements
Applicants should submit:
- Updated resume
- Cover letter
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to the high volume of applications.
Why Apply?
The WWF Prospect Research Internship provides an excellent opportunity to:
- Earn competitive hourly pay
- Build fundraising and donor research expertise
- Gain nonprofit development experience
- Learn industry-standard research platforms
- Work with one of the world’s leading conservation organizations
- Expand professional networks
- Develop transferable analytical and communication skills
- Contribute to global environmental conservation efforts
Conclusion
The World Wildlife Fund Prospect Research Internship combines meaningful conservation work with valuable professional development and competitive pay. Students interested in nonprofit fundraising, research, sustainability, business, environmental policy, or international development will gain practical experience while supporting WWF’s mission to help people and nature thrive worldwide.
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