Organizational Overview
The Neighborhood Development Center (NDC) is a non-profit, community development financial institution providing integrated business services to low-income community entrepreneurs to start and grow businesses in their own neighborhood. These businesses then enrich the economic and social fabric of the community. More information at www.ndc-mn.org.

In 2023, NDC was humbled to be named the administrator of the Minnesota PROMISE Act Grants Program for the Twin Cities. The PROMISE Act Grants Program will deliver grants to businesses in North Minneapolis, South Minneapolis, and St. Paul that have been adversely affected by structural racial discrimination, civil unrest, and lack of access to capital. More information at mnpromiseact.org

Job Summary

We are looking for a recent graduate who is eager to gain hands-on experience in grants administration, financial review, and community engagement. This internship is ideal for someone passionate about supporting underserved entrepreneurs and ready to contribute to a mission-driven team. This person serves a crucial role on the grant team, offering direct support to applicants via phone, email, and in person, to help them successfully navigate the application process. This role also involves checking financial documents, reviewing banking information, and ensuring that grant applications meet program requirements. Ideal candidates will be analytical, detail-oriented, and deadline-driven and have communication skills.

You must be passionate about supporting underserved entrepreneurs through many facets of the grant application cycle.

We are offering multiple rounds of the grant application process. The day-to-day activities of this role will vary, based on the stage of the grant cycle we are in. Key responsibilities may include:
o Evaluate grant applications and verify supporting eligibility documentation
o Collaborate closely with internal team and community partners throughout the application process
o Notify applicants of necessary revisions
o Manage and update grantee files to ensure accurate record-keeping
o Respond to applicant inquiries via email and phone, offering clear and helpful guidance
o Provide support to applicants, addressing both general and application-specific needs
o Assist with organizing and facilitating outreach events

Requirements and Preferred Background
• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in public administration, business, finance, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Basic accounting and data management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word, etc.).
• Technically adept with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new platforms.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal.
• Outstanding customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience or strong interest in working with diverse communities; bilingual skills are a plus.
• Experience with WizeHive or similar platforms is helpful — but not expected — we’re happy to provide training and support.
• Experience working with entrepreneurs or small business owners, especially from underserved communities.
• Strong interest in economic development, entrepreneurship, or community-based work.