About the role#
The Advocacy & Development Fellow supports the external affairs work of the Michigan Black Business Alliance. You will work directly with the Director of External Affairs to gain experience in public policy, nonprofit development, and stakeholder engagement. This is a 10-month, paid position running from August 2026 through May 2027.
What you'll do#
- Research policy issues that affect Black-owned businesses, including local and state legislation or economic regulations.
- Draft policy memos, briefing documents, legislative talking points, and plain-language materials.
- Monitor policy developments by maintaining the internal policy tracker.
- Organize and support events such as legislative meetings and community forums.
- Identify funding opportunities by conducting prospect research on foundations and corporate partners.
- Draft grant applications, letters of inquiry, and reporting narratives.
- Manage development tracking tools, including prospect lists and funding deadlines.
- Support relationship management by preparing meeting materials and drafting partnership proposals.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in or recent completion of a degree in political science, public policy, law, nonprofit management, communications, or a related field.
- Strong research and writing skills with the ability to explain complex information to different audiences.
- Attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects at once.
- Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
- A self-directed approach to research and project tasks.
- Genuine interest in Black entrepreneurship and the mission of the Michigan Black Business Alliance.
- Familiarity with the Detroit or Michigan policy landscape is helpful.
Location & details#
- This role is based in Detroit, Michigan.
- You must be able to work on-site for the duration of the fellowship.
- The position is full-time and paid.
About Michigan Black Business Alliance
The Michigan Black Business Alliance is a nonprofit organization based in Detroit. Founded in 2021, it focuses on economic growth and development for the Black business community in Michigan. The organization provides programming, networking, and advocacy to support local entrepreneurs. It employs between 11 and 50 people.
How to get in at Michigan Black Business Alliance
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