Emerging Prairie Employment Opportunity Public Affairs Intern

Pay rate: $14/hour Internship Duration: July 2026 – November 2026 Job Summary Emerging Prairie is looking for a Public Affairs Intern to support the Chief of Staff in advancing key organizational priorities. This intern will work closely with the Chief of Staff to help translate strategy into action - assisting with executive preparedness, special projects, internal communications, and board and external engagement support. The role also includes a marketing and communications component, contributing to content and storytelling efforts for Emerging Prairie and its sub-brands, including Grand Farm, StartupBREW Fargo, TEDxFargo, and Emerging Digital Academy.

We’re looking for someone who is highly organized, discreet, and comfortable operating behind the scenes to keep priorities moving. Our ideal teammate is a self-starter who thinks ahead, communicates clearly, and is energized by variety. Please note: This internship is full-time during the summer and part-time during the school year, with an end date of November 20, 2026.

Key Areas of Responsibility CEO & Chief of Staff Support Assist the Chief of Staff with preparation and follow-up for key meetings, decisions, and materials. Help manage information flow, scheduling logistics, and materials to keep the CEO and Chief of Staff prepared. Support special projects and priority initiatives as assigned by the Chief of Staff or CEO.

Help draft and coordinate internal communications and messaging for staff alignment. Public Affairs & External Engagement Support Assist with research and briefing materials for government relations and external stakeholder engagement. Support drafting and editing of speeches, op-eds, and correspondence for key stakeholders.

Help coordinate logistics and follow-up related to board communications and engagement. Support the creation of original content including photos, graphics, and copy as needed. Assist with content updates and other marketing efforts across Emerging Prairie and its sub-brands as needed.

Each intern will have opportunities to: Engage with and support Emerging Prairie and Grand Farm community members, host speakers, and network with event attendees. Support various team members across divisions on special projects and campaigns. Required Skills/Abilities Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, including proofreading and editing. High level of discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential information. Strong attention to detail and follow-through on assigned tasks.

Ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment. Comfortable working on multiple social media platforms, including LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube. Ability to communicate clearly with teammates regarding needs, questions, and project status updates.

Preferred Skills/Abilities

Experience or coursework in business, marketing and communications, public administration, or a related field. Interest in pursuing a career in organizational leadership, operations, or marketing and communications. Knowledge of, or a desire to learn, Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

Interest in community development, the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and nonprofit leadership. Physical demands: These physical requirements must be met with or without accommodation. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Must be able to lift 15 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally. Ability to continuously stand or walk during events and meetings. Ability to bend, squat, climb stairs and lift occasionally.

Work environment: Noise level in a regular work environment is frequently loud. Ability to work outside normal business hours and travel on occasion. May occasionally work outdoors and in environments with temperatures above 100 degrees and below 32 degrees.

May occasionally walk on slippery or uneven surfaces. May occasionally climb ladders and work off elevated surfaces.

Benefits and Culture: Located in Fargo, ND, with a flexible work environment that allows the employee to work from varied environments and locations. To apply: Please send both a cover letter and résumé to Matt Wendel at MattW@emergingprairie.com. About Emerging Prairie Mission Statement: To energize communities.

Vision: The relentless pursuit to improve the human condition, locally and beyond. Core Values: Trust First, Learn Fast, Be Bold, Move Together, Be Scrappy, Think Holistic, and Lead with Gratitude. Emerging Prairie is a non-profit organization that focuses on energizing communities through innovative programming, experiences, and initiatives that move the needle and ignite economic growth.

With our values, mission, and vision as a guiding force, we strive to support founders, creators, and community builders to be curious and relentless in their pursuits. Emerging Prairie leads the efforts for Grand Farm, StartupBREW Fargo, Emerging Digital Academy, and TEDxFargo. Emerging Prairie was founded in 2013 by a group of Fargo entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in the community they call home.

Emerging Prairie is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.