FAI Artificial Intelligence Policy Team Internship 2026 (Paid AI Policy Internship in Washington, DC)

Applications are now open for the FAI Artificial Intelligence Policy Team Internship 2026, a paid internship opportunity offered by the Foundation for American Innovation (FAI). The programme is designed for students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals who are interested in artificial intelligence policy, emerging technologies, public policy, and innovation. Interns will work alongside FAI's Artificial Intelligence Policy Team, contributing to research, policy development, coalition-building efforts, and strategic initiatives that address some of the most pressing questions surrounding AI governance and technology policy.

The internship provides participants with hands-on experience in policy research while allowing them to explore topics related to AI regulation, national competitiveness, innovation policy, emerging technologies, and the future of responsible artificial intelligence. In addition to supporting ongoing projects, interns are encouraged to design and complete an independent research project that culminates in a publishable article, policy paper, report, or other practical deliverable.

Based primarily at FAI's office on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, the internship offers fellows an opportunity to engage directly with policy experts, researchers, lawmakers, industry leaders, and organizations shaping the future of artificial intelligence in the United States. Exceptional applicants may be considered for temporary remote participation, although in-person attendance is strongly preferred.

About the Internship

The Foundation for American Innovation established its AI Policy Team to advance practical, forward-looking public policies that promote technological innovation while addressing the opportunities and challenges created by rapidly evolving artificial intelligence systems.

Throughout the internship, participants contribute to active research projects examining AI governance, national security, economic competitiveness, innovation ecosystems, and technology policy. Interns collaborate with experienced policy researchers, participate in policy discussions, support coalition activities, and gain valuable insight into how research informs legislative and regulatory decision-making.

Internship Benefits

Selected interns will receive:

• Compensation of USD 20 per hour.
• Hands-on experience in AI policy research and analysis.
• Mentorship from experienced policy researchers and technology experts.
• Opportunity to complete an independent research project.
• Experience producing publishable policy research.
• Exposure to coalition-building and stakeholder engagement.
• Networking opportunities with policymakers, researchers, and technology leaders.
• Flexible full-time or part-time internship options.
• Professional experience within one of the leading technology policy organizations in the United States.

Please note that housing, travel, and living expenses are not provided, and interns are expected to bring their own laptop for the duration of the internship.

Key Responsibilities

Interns will contribute to a variety of activities, including:

• Supporting ongoing AI policy research projects.
• Conducting policy analysis and background research.
• Preparing policy briefs, reports, and research memoranda.
• Assisting with coalition-building initiatives and stakeholder outreach.
• Supporting workshops, meetings, and public events.
• Collaborating with team members on strategic policy initiatives.
• Developing and completing an original independent research project.
• Producing a final publishable or practical policy deliverable before the internship concludes.

Areas of Interest

Applicants with interests in the following areas are encouraged to apply:

• Artificial Intelligence Policy.
• AI Governance.
• Technology Policy.
• Emerging Technologies.
• Innovation Policy.
• National Security.
• Economic Competitiveness.
• Public Policy.
• Science and Technology Policy.
• Regulatory Affairs.
• Research and Policy Analysis.
• Digital Governance.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

• Be authorized to work in the United States.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in artificial intelligence policy, technology, or public policy.
• Possess excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Be able to contribute effectively to collaborative policy projects.
• Be available during the Fall 2026 internship period.
• Be willing to work primarily from FAI's Washington, DC office (remote arrangements may be considered only in exceptional circumstances).

Required Application Materials

Applicants should prepare:

• Completed online application.
• Current résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Writing sample or research sample, if requested.
• Responses to application questions.
• Any additional materials specified during the application process.

Applicants should carefully review the application instructions and ensure all requested information is submitted to maximize their chances of selection.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Demonstrated interest in AI and technology policy.
• Quality of research and analytical experience.
• Writing ability.
• Communication skills.
• Potential to contribute to FAI's research agenda.
• Motivation and alignment with the internship's objectives.
• Ability to complete an independent research project successfully.

How to Apply

To apply for the FAI Artificial Intelligence Policy Team Internship 2026:

1. Visit the official Foundation for American Innovation internship application page.
2. Carefully review the internship description and eligibility requirements.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload your résumé and any required supporting documents.
5. Provide thoughtful responses to all application questions.
6. Submit your application as early as possible.