The Department of Development propels the Institute forward through innovative and project-oriented fundraising. Development interns help MEI creatively showcase to its donors and membership that it is a dynamic institute engaged in daily dialogue on the Middle East. Interns should possess strong people skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and have a knack for both project management and multi-tasking.

1) Research

Assist in the development of new and imaginative fundraising activities, many of which will be events-based. Research creative web-based funding opportunities. Research and target charitable trust foundations/grants whose criteria match the mission of MEI.

2) Assist with marketing and design projects

Work with all forms of media (particularly InDesign) to produce supporting web and print materials to promote, market, and advertise forthcoming events for MEI’s membership base.

3) Writing

Write applications and mail-shots, using direct mailing to reach a wide range of potential and current donors. Write articles for the MEI Bulletin.

4) Brainstorm, Strategize, and Implement

Developing and implementing a strategy for individual and corporate recruitment and development. Help to build and maintain profitable, long-term fundraising relationships with donors and potential donors. Manage and update databases to record donor contact and preference information. Brainstorm how to generate increased income from existing sources.

Technical skills:

• Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and PowerPoint skills preferred.
• Facility with databases is a big plus.