Are you a rising junior or senior undergraduate student eager to gain hands-on experience in philanthropy, public policy, and research? Arnold Ventures (AV) is thrilled to announce that applications for the 2026 Summer Internship Program are officially open. This highly competitive internship offers students the opportunity to work with one of the nation’s leading philanthropic organizations, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop skills that will shape their future careers.
About Arnold Ventures
Arnold Ventures is a philanthropy dedicated to addressing some of America’s most persistent challenges. By supporting evidence-based research and systemic change, AV works to improve the lives of families, strengthen communities, and expand economic opportunity. With initiatives spanning public policy, criminal justice reform, education, health care, and governance, AV is committed to driving lasting impact through innovation and collaboration.
Internship Overview
The AV Summer Internship Program is a 10-week immersive experience designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of philanthropy and public policy. Interns will be assigned to either programmatic or operational teams, depending on organizational needs, and will gain exposure to real-world projects that influence national policy and community development.
Each intern will be paired with a project manager to oversee their work and a mentor to guide their professional growth. The program also includes structured professional development sessions, networking opportunities with AV team members, and engagement with external partners.
Internship Term
- Dates: June 1 – August 7, 2026
- Locations: Houston, TX, or Washington, D.C.
- Compensation: $30/hour plus a $5,000 stipend for housing and/or transportation expenses (subject to applicable taxes).
- Travel: Interns will participate in cross-office travel. Washington, D.C.-based interns will travel to Houston for onboarding in June, while Houston-based interns will travel to D.C. in July. Airfare, meals, and lodging will be covered by AV.
Office Closures
Interns should note that AV will be closed on the following dates due to holidays and Summer Fridays: June 5, June 19 (Juneteenth), July 3 (Independence Day), July 17, and July 31. These are unpaid days.
Core Responsibilities
Interns will be entrusted with a variety of responsibilities that contribute directly to AV’s mission. These include:
- Conducting research on topics related to AV’s initiative areas.
- Assisting in the development, maintenance, and oversight of current and potential grants.
- Composing, fact-checking, and editing policy papers, letters, website content, and Salesforce records.
- Participating in meetings with grantees, government officials, and other stakeholders.
This internship is designed to provide students with practical skills, a stronger grasp of the philanthropic sector, and a clearer understanding of career opportunities in public policy and research.
Candidate Qualifications
To be eligible for the AV Summer Internship Program, applicants must:
- Be full-time rising juniors or seniors in an undergraduate program.
- Demonstrate knowledge of and interest in policy, research, and legislative developments.
- Possess strong analytical skills for evaluating policy and research data.
- Exhibit excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to summarize complex information for diverse audiences.
- Show exceptional project management and organizational abilities.
- Commit to a full-time schedule for the duration of the program.
Culture and Core Values
Arnold Ventures fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity. Interns will be immersed in an environment that encourages bold ideas, adaptability, and teamwork. AV’s core values include:
- Respect for Ourselves & Others
- Audacious Action
- Collaborative Engagement
- Depth of Thought
- Clear Communication
AV is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. Applicants from varied backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply, especially those impacted by the systems AV seeks to reform.
Why Apply?
This internship is more than just a summer job—it is a launchpad for future leaders in philanthropy, public policy, and research. Interns will leave the program with:
- Practical experience in grantmaking and policy analysis.
- Professional development and mentorship from experienced leaders.
- Networking opportunities with policymakers, advocates, and experts.
- A broader perspective on systemic change and its impact on communities.
Application Details
- Deadline: January 5, 2026
- Apply Here: Arnold Ventures Summer Internship Program Application
Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter that highlights their qualifications and interest in the program. Early applications are strongly encouraged due to the competitive nature of the internship.