The Koch Internship Program (KIP) is a paid, 12-week hands-on learning experience organized by Stand Together Fellowships. It provides valuable work opportunities at nonprofit organizations across the U.S. that address major national issues. Applicants must be located in the U.S. and legally authorized to work for the entire duration of the program.

Interns will gain practical experience at a partner nonprofit and take part in professional development activities, including a two-day, in-person summit at Stand Together’s headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. Additional virtual sessions are held every other Thursday from 1–3:30 p.m. ET. Interns receive a stipend of either $7,500 for full-time (40 hours/week) or $5,500 for part-time (24 hours/week) participation.

The program focuses on three main goals:

1. Exploring the core principles of a free society, such as individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and the rule of law.
2. Understanding Stand Together’s approach to social change and how principled problem-solving can address major societal challenges.
3. Offering guidance and opportunities for building a career that promotes liberty and a free society.

Applicants will go through interviews with both Stand Together Fellowships staff and nonprofit partners, so early applications are encouraged.

Note: All KIP interns must be available for virtual training sessions on Jan. 22, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26, and April 9 from 1–3:30 p.m. ET, and attend the in-person summit in Arlington, VA on Feb. 6–7.

About the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI):

CEI is a Washington-based nonprofit think tank that focuses on key economic and regulatory policy issues. Its internship program offers students and recent graduates the chance to engage with and promote the values of limited government, free enterprise, and individual liberty. Interns work alongside leading experts in regulatory policy and public affairs.

CEI offers internships in various policy areas, as well as in communications and marketing. Policy interns are typically paired with a specific CEI expert, while communications and marketing interns work with their respective teams.

The internship is designed to be a valuable learning experience, helping interns grow professionally, develop new skills, and build lasting connections. Interns are encouraged to take initiative, and those who excel may have the opportunity to tailor their experience or explore other roles within CEI.

Many former CEI interns have gone on to careers in government, academia, and leading research institutions. Several current CEI staff members began as interns.

Learn more about CEI, its history, team, and work on its website.

Policy/Research Intern:

These interns work with one or more CEI policy experts and conduct research on topics such as regulatory reform, banking, energy, technology, antitrust, trade, labor, transportation, healthcare, and asset forfeiture.

Qualifications:

Applicants should have a strong interest in public policy, economics, and libertarian or conservative ideas. Strong research, writing, and organizational skills are essential, along with professionalism and discretion. Interns must be able to work independently and be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

CEI also offers internships in communications, marketing, and occasionally in areas like fundraising, government affairs, events, litigation, and IT. These opportunities can be discussed during the interview process.

This internship is in-person in Washington, D.C., with a stipend ranging from $5,500 to $7,500.

Stand Together Fellowships values diversity and is committed to treating all applicants with respect and fairness. The program welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and does not discriminate based on any legally protected status.