1871 - Partnerships Intern

The story of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 isn't really about the fire. It's about what happened next—a remarkable moment when the most brilliant engineers, architects, and inventors came together to build a new city. Their innovations—born of passion and practical ingenuity—shaped not just Chicago but also the modern world. What started 140 years ago continues to this day.

1871 exists to inspire, equip, and support extraordinary tech businesses. We deliver unfair advantages at scale. The team supports members made up of Chicago's brightest digital designers, engineers, and leaders shaping new technologies, disrupting old business models, and resetting the boundaries of what's possible.

Come to a place where you can share ideas, make mistakes, partner with others, work hard, grow professionally and change the world with a bit of luck. If that sounds like you, join us!

1871 seeks a professionally driven, creative, and highly motivated intern to support our Partnerships Team.

Time Commitment

This internship is from June 5 to August 7, 2025, and is virtual with occasional on-site collaboration. Hours and time commitment may be flexible if agreed upon by the supervisor and the internship candidate prior to the start of the internship.

Duties and Responsibilities

1871 seeks a professionally driven, creative, and highly motivated intern to support our Partnerships Team.

• Assist in competitive benchmarking research to help evaluate 1871’s positioning in the market.
• Conduct VC portfolio mapping to identify potential partnership opportunities.
• Support in managing partnership relations, including research on prospective partners and outreach strategies.
• Organize and maintain partnership data, reports, and documentation.
• Assist in drafting communications and presentations for partnership meetings.
• Provide support on special projects as assigned within the department.

• Currently enrolled at an accredited university (recent grads will also be considered).
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides) and Microsoft Office.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Interest in partnerships, business development, and the startup ecosystem.

• Letters of recommendation from our leadership team.
• College credit (upon school approval).
• Work with some of the best and brightest entrepreneurs and startups in the country.
• Develop in-demand skills and enhance your resume with hands-on experience.