Chicago Metro Farms Fund Market Intelligence Intern

Job Description

Chicago Metro Farms Fund Market Intelligence Intern | The Conservation Fund

The Tone:
This is an internship at The Conservation Fund, located in Chicago, IL. The Conservation Fund works to advance conservation efforts across America by mobilizing capital for peri-urban agricultural lands and next-generation farm owners. This role is crucial for developing market intelligence and strategic positioning, directly supporting the fund’s growth and ability to attract diverse capital sources. The work aims to ensure conservation efforts are economically viable and benefit all Americans.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Temporary
• Location: In-person, Chicago, IL
• Pay: $23 hourly
• Team: Supporting the Chicago Metro Farms Fund initiative
• Mission: Strengthen The Conservation Fund’s capacity to mobilize capital for peri-urban agricultural lands and next-generation farm owners in a high-impact geography.
• Tech Stack: Microsoft Office Suite

What You’ll Actually Do
• Document Market Alignment: Evaluate existing regenerative agriculture standards, adoption rates, and market shares to assess sustainable food systems and identify relevant standards for the Farms Fund.
• Identify Anchor Buyers: Research and develop a list of three to five anchor buyers in the Chicago Metro area to create economically viable opportunities for farmers.
• Outline Regional Case for Support: Produce a written case for support for the Chicago Metro area, grounding it in market alignment and capital stack research to serve as a narrative foundation.
• Refine Pitch Deck: Adapt the current pitch deck for diverse audiences, including foundation, corporate, and impact investment prospects.
• Update Fund Collateral: Update the fund’s one-page pitch and review existing collateral to identify alignment and gaps with standards and funder expectations.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Enrolled in or recently graduated from a program in environmental studies, economics, public policy, sustainable food systems, or a related field.
• Experience: Demonstrated strong research, synthesis, and professional writing skills, with the ability to manage parallel workstreams.
• Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, strong communication skills, and keen attention to detail.
• Bonus: Familiarity with regenerative agriculture or sustainable food systems.