Institute of Politics

Organization Overview:

The Illinois Finance Authority/Climate Bank (“Authority”) plays a crucial role in facilitating federally tax-exempt conduit bond issuances. To date, the Authority’s financing products have spanned every county and helped capitalize thousands of projects, assisting farmers and agri-businesses and industry, school districts and higher education institutions, healthcare facilities, cultural social entities, and local governments develop, upgrade, expand, and sustain their operations and services.

Additionally, since our designation as the State Climate Bank in 2021, we have been at the forefront of developing initiatives to combat climate change and promote sustainable practices. The Authority’s designation as the Illinois Climate Bank allows the pursuit of federal funding opportunities made through recent federal legislation such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. In the first twelve months of the Authority’s Climate Bank designation, $256 million in private capital was mobilized and deployed to finance clean energy projects throughout the state. Our collaborations span governmental entities, charitable organizations, and private businesses, driving collective efforts to create a greener future.

Internship Summary:

Join us at the Illinois Finance Authority for an enriching internship focused on public finance in Illinois and the exciting development of the State’s Climate Bank. As an intern, you'll delve into the intricate world of public finance, supporting our efforts to address climate change through innovative programs. This internship offers a unique opportunity to work alongside professionals, contribute to real-world projects, and make a lasting impact on environmental policy.

• Gain insights into the complexities of public finance and the creation of sustainable programs. - Develop skills in legal research and analysis, including the ability to synthesize complex information. - Experience firsthand the coordination of programs across multiple stakeholders and government levels. - Work with professionals to craft impactful presentations and communications. - Contribute to the growth and impact of the Illinois Climate Bank.

Responsibilities:

The Authority will work with interns to identify responsibilities in line with their career goals. In the past, responsibilities have included:

• Supporting the development of programs and initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. - Assisting in preparing for public meetings by gathering information, creating presentations, and conducting legal research and analysis. - Collaborating with professionals in the public finance industry to ensure the Authority's products and programs are effective and aligned with climate goals. - Aiding in the review and update of policies and procedures to ensure they meet current industry standards and environmental objectives. - Attending workshops and facilitate collaboration between various stakeholders, contributing to the creation of impactful climate programs. - Potentially developing presentations related to new initiatives and presenting them to the Authority’s board on the public record. - Assisting in creating memos and notes to be included in the Authority's board book or other publications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Enthusiasm for public service and a keen interest in environmental policy. - Detail-oriented, with the ability to engage in meticulous work such as legal research and analysis. - Strong organizational and time management skills. - Excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Comfortable working independently and collaborating with professionals across sectors.

• Interest in state government processes and policy development.

About the supervisor:

Mark Meyer is a dedicated legal professional currently serving as an Associate General Counsel at the Illinois Finance Authority (IFA). Prior to IFA, Mark served as a Child Advocacy Law Student Attorney at the University of Michigan Law School, showcasing his commitment to advocacy and justice. Mark holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Chicago.

Eligibility:

-Undergraduate students -International and Domestic students

Location, Modality, and Commute

-Ideally, the intern would come to the Authority's downtown office approximately once a week. We have always been able to work around students' other commitments, but in-person attendance is more important the week before the second Tuesday of the month. -55 to Green line -160 N. LaSalle St., Suite S-1000, Chicago, IL 60601

Start and End Date

The Academic Year internships will take place according to the IOP’s timeline, with specific dates and weekly hours to be determined by the employer partner and intern during the interview process:

• Onboarding: November – December 2025
• Intern Work Period: January – May 2026