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KIP Spring 2026 - External Relations Intern - Mercatus Center

Stand Together
On-site
Virginia

The Koch Internship Program (KIP) is a paid, 12-week experiential learning program run by Stand Together Fellowships that offers meaningful work experience at non-profits all over the United States tackling some of our nation's most pressing challenges. Eligible candidates will be geographically located within the U.S. and authorized to work in the U.S. through the duration of the program.


Throughout your internship, you will gain meaningful professional experience at a partner organization and participate in professional development built around a 2-day, in-person summit hosted by Stand Together Fellowships at Stand Together's Headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, supported by virtual programming that takes place every other Thursday between 1- 3:30 pm ET. Interns will receive either a $7,500 or $5,500 stipend from Stand Together Fellowships depending on whether they are participating full-time (40 hours/week) or part-time (24 hours/week).


The programming provided by Stand Together Fellowships focuses on three objectives:


1. understanding the foundational principles of a free society such as individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and the rule of law;

2. learning the Stand Together community's vision for change and how a principled approach to problem solving can help address society's biggest challenges; and

3. presenting opportunities and pathways to build a career that advances liberty and free society.


Successful candidates will interview with both our non-profit partner organizations and Stand Together Fellowships staff, so we strongly encourage you to apply in advance!


Please note that all Koch Internship Program interns MUST be available every other Thursday (Jan. 22, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26, and April 9) from 1-3:30 PM ET for virtual professional development training AND the in-person summit at Stand Together's Headquarters in Arlington, VA Feb. 6-Feb. 7.



About The Mercatus Center:

The Mercatus Center at George Mason University advances knowledge about how markets work to improve people’s lives and fosters understanding of the institutions that support prosperity and human well-being.


EEO Statement: We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.


 

About the role 

The Mercatus Center at George Mason University is seeking an External Relations Intern to join our External Relations team. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting Mercatus scholars who engage with policymakers, media, and other key stakeholders.


Through this internship, you will gain exposure to federal and state policy engagement, develop professional skills, and learn about classical liberalism, the broader liberty movement, and the Mercatus Center’s mission and research.


This role is onsite in Fairfax, VA.

 

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Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with administrative tasks and small research projects.
  • Support preparation for meetings with legislators, coalition partners, and conferences.
  • Draft outreach campaign emails and help create one-pagers and other materials for external audiences.
  • Attend External Relations events and relevant coalition gatherings.
  • Take meeting notes and maintain accurate records in Salesforce.
  • Track and summarize relevant legislation, hearings, and policy developments.
  • Support media outreach and assist the Strategic Engagement Team as needed.
  • Learn about classical liberalism and the Mercatus Center’s work through structured programming and mentorship.


Minimum Qualifications
  • Currently enrolled in a college or university degree program.
  • Demonstrated interest in classical liberalism and the mission of the Mercatus Center.
  • Strong work ethic, initiative, and ability to work independently.
  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication abilities.


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$5,500 - $7,500 a year
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Stand Together Fellowships believes that diversity in experiences, perspectives, knowledge and ideas fuels creativity, broadens knowledge, and helps drive success. Our admissions office treats all program participants and applicants with honesty, dignity, respect and sensitivity. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of color, race, religion, religious creed, sex, gender or gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, ancestry, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy (including medical needs which may arise from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), military and veteran status, genetic information, marital or familial status, political affiliation, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.