Nature-Based Solutions Accelerator Intern

LegacyWorks Group is a community of catalytic change-makers working to build resilience and impact at the pace and scale needed to address the intersecting crises of our time, including public health, disaster resilience, fairness, and biodiversity loss. LegacyWorks is partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Department of Defense, Duke University, and the Conservation Finance Network on a nature-based solutions (NBS) accelerator project in North Carolina (NC). The goal of the accelerator is to enhance the scope and scale of NBS implementation in the state by targeting and removing key barriers to these types of projects. One key barrier is access to financing—a pillar of the Accelerator is to develop an innovative financing strategy that identifies viable financial models that will better enable private-sector investment in NBS in NC.

Position Summary

LegacyWorks is seeking two Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) Accelerator Interns for summer 2025 to support the NBS Accelerator project. Summer work will support the development of the financial model through examining and gathering information on financing mechanisms of existing NBS projects in the region. Work will include desk research, document review, and engagement with NBS project staff to gather information not available in written form. This position will report to Chris Baillie at LegacyWorks Group, with guidance from senior partners at Duke University and the Conservation Finance Network. This is a full-time (40 hours/week), seasonal and hourly position for 10-12 weeks during the summer of 2025. Work will likely be conducted using a combination of remote work and regular in-person meetings (depending on intern’s geographic location).

Key Tasks

• Support development of financial modeling for NBS work in salt marsh restoration, peatland rewetting, wetland restoration, green stormwater management, and others

• Gather information on existing examples of blended capital financing for conservation projects in NC 

• Evaluate publicly-funded, successfully-implemented NBS in the region for untapped opportunities for private sector investment

• Organize and assess NBS project financial information, creating financial models and case studies

• Search academic literature, gray literature, and online resources for information and data relevant to conservation finance

• Summarize research in written form

• Create materials (slides, memos, research summaries, etc.) to seek feedback and input from partners

• Attend Accelerator project meetings and interact with participants from a wide range of partners, including from U.S. federal agencies, NC state agencies, non-profits, and the private sector

Skills

• Familiarity with nature-based solutions and blended finance mechanisms is preferred

• Literature review and synthesizing information from multiple sources

• Strong organizational skills

• Excellent oral and written communication

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment committed to continuous learning

• Students in MBA, environmental management, and related masters degree programs are encouraged

This job description serves as a summary of the primary responsibilities and qualifications for the NBS Accelerator Intern position, however, additional duties may be expected as part of the role.

Compensation & Benefits

The compensation for this role is $10,000. As a seasonal employee, the NBS Accelerator Intern will not qualify for health benefits, but will receive a $100 stipend per month towards their home office needs. 

To Apply

Email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to Jordan Rich, Director of People & Culture, at jordan@legacyworksgroup.com with “NBS Accelerator Intern” in the subject line. Applications are only accepted electronically. Review of applications will begin on February 26, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. 

LegacyWorks Group is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to cultivating an inclusive work culture. We welcome candidates of all backgrounds and value life experience and achievements. All employees and applicants for employment are not to be discriminated on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.