The Cooperative Business Intern will support the Network for Developing Conscious Communities (NDCC) in advancing Black-led cooperative enterprises through research, outreach, and business development initiatives. This role provides hands-on experience in cooperative business models, economic justice, policy advocacy, and technical assistance. The intern will work closely with NDCC’s leadership team and cooperative development partners to assist in various projects aimed at strengthening Black cooperative ecosystems.
 

Program Support & Training Assistance
 

• Provide administrative and logistical support for NDCC’s Black CoopNomics Academy and other cooperative training programs.
• Assist in developing educational materials and toolkits for cooperative entrepreneurs.
• Support the planning and execution of workshops, webinars, and training sessions for cooperative business leaders.

Outreach & Stakeholder Engagement
 

• Assist in engaging cooperative practitioners, community organizations, and funding partners.
• Support NDCC’s outreach efforts by creating content for newsletters, blogs, and social media.
• Help coordinate networking events and meetings with cooperative leaders and policymakers.

Applicants must be currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as:

• Business Administration (with a focus on social enterprise or cooperatives)
• Economics or Community Development
• Public Policy or Political Science
• Nonprofit Management
• Urban Planning or Environmental Studies
• Sociology, African American Studies, or Social Justice
• Relevant work or volunteer experience in cooperative businesses, nonprofits, economic development, or community organizing.

✅ Skills & Knowledge

• Understanding of Cooperative Business Models – Basic knowledge of worker, housing, and food cooperatives or a willingness to learn.
• Strong Research & Analytical Skills – Ability to conduct market research, analyze funding sources, and compile reports on cooperative enterprises.
• Excellent Communication & Writing Skills – Experience drafting policy briefs, reports, and outreach materials.
• Organizational & Project Management Abilities – Ability to manage multiple tasks, track project milestones, and meet deadlines.
• Community Engagement & Outreach Experience – Familiarity with grassroots organizing, nonprofit advocacy, or working with marginalized communities.
• Policy & Economic Justice Awareness – Interest in racial and economic equity, sustainable development, and financial inclusion policies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, & Data Management Tools – Ability to create reports, presentations, and spreadsheets.

• Previous Experience with Cooperatives – Involvement in a worker cooperative, credit union, community land trust, or nonprofit organization.
• Experience in Event Planning or Program Coordination – Background in organizing conferences, workshops, or training programs.
• Social Media & Digital Outreach – Familiarity with social media campaigns, digital organizing, and online advocacy.
• Grant Writing or Fundraising Knowledge – Understanding of philanthropic funding, cooperative finance, or impact investing.

Send all required application materials via email to: ronhantz@ndccnetwork.org

1. Cover Letter (1 Page)
Your cover letter should:
✅ Express your interest in the Cooperative Business Intern position.
✅ Highlight relevant experience in cooperative economics, business development, policy advocacy, or community organizing.
✅ Explain how your skills align with the responsibilities of the role.
✅ Describe your passion for economic justice and cooperative models.

2. Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Your resume should include:
✅ Education – Degree(s) earned or in progress, relevant coursework.
✅ Work/Internship Experience – Highlight roles in economic development, business, nonprofits, or advocacy.
✅ Leadership & Community Involvement – Participation in cooperative projects, volunteer work, or activism.
✅ Skills & Certifications – List technical skills, language proficiencies, or certifications relevant to the position.

3. Writing Sample (Optional, Preferred)
📌 A 1-3 page sample of previous work demonstrating your ability to:

Conduct research on economic issues, cooperatives, or policy advocacy.
Write analytical reports, policy briefs, or grant proposals.
Develop content for community outreach, social media, or business marketing.
(If you do not have a writing sample, an excerpt from a class project, research paper, or published article is acceptable.)

4. Two Professional or Academic References
Submit the names and contact information for two individuals who can speak to your:
✅ Work ethic and professionalism
✅ Knowledge of cooperative economics, economic justice, or business development
✅ Leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills

The Network for Developing Conscious Communities (NDCC) is a national organization dedicated to empowering Black-led cooperatives, fostering economic justice, and advancing community wealth-building initiatives. NDCC is committed to supporting Black-governed and Black-led organizations that work toward creating sustainable and thriving communities through cooperative development, advocacy, and education.