About the role#
The Advocacy & Development Fellow supports the external affairs work of the Michigan Black Business Alliance. This 10-month position runs from August 2026 through May 2027. You will work directly with the Director of External Affairs to gain experience in public policy, nonprofit development, and stakeholder engagement. This is a paid, full-time, on-site fellowship based in Detroit.
What you'll do#
- Research policy issues that affect Black-owned businesses, including local and state legislation.
- Draft policy memos, briefing documents, legislative talking points, and plain-language materials.
- Maintain a policy tracker to monitor bills and ordinances.
- Support advocacy efforts by developing surveys and assisting with community forums or legislative meetings.
- Identify foundation, corporate, and government funding opportunities through prospect research.
- Assist with drafting grant applications, letters of inquiry, and reporting narratives.
- Manage development tracking tools, including funding deadlines and prospect lists.
- Prepare meeting materials and track follow-up items for relationships with elected officials, corporate partners, and community organizations.
What you'll need#
- An undergraduate or graduate degree in political science, public policy, public administration, law, nonprofit management, communications, or economic development.
- Strong research, writing, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Demonstrated interest in policy, advocacy, fundraising, or community-based organizations.
- Familiarity with the Michigan or Detroit policy landscape.
- A genuine interest in Black entrepreneurship and the mission of the organization.
- Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
- Ability to work independently and maintain professionalism with external stakeholders.
Location & details#
- Location: Detroit, Michigan.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Fall 2026 through Spring 2027.
How to get in at Michigan Black Business Alliance
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