GIZ is a German federal enterprise acting on behalf of the German Government, delivering international cooperation for sustainable development in more than 130 countries. It implements programmes spanning climate and environmental protection, digital transformation, economic development, and social inclusion. For more than five decades, the organisation has provided forward‑looking solutions to global challenges, partnering with governments, international institutions, and civil society.
Role Overview
As an Intern within the Access to Climate Finance team, you will be part of the “Partnering for Readiness” initiative. This role focuses on enhancing partner countries’ capacity to mobilise, deploy, and monitor climate finance, particularly funds such as the Green Climate Fund and other donor instruments. You will engage in research, documentation, stakeholder coordination, and communication tasks, gaining practical exposure to the architecture of international climate finance and development cooperation.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct detailed research on climate finance instruments, green investment frameworks, and donor readiness processes.
- Prepare analytical briefs, policy notes, presentations, and workshop materials for internal and external stakeholders.
- Assist in monitoring and evaluation of ongoing climate finance activities, including data collection and report preparation.
- Support the maintenance of project documentation, partner databases, and communication channels.
- Contribute to event planning and follow‑up preparing meeting summaries, coordinating logistics, and drafting communication materials.
- Collaborate with a multi‑cultural, international team and interface with partners from diverse institutional and national backgrounds.
Candidate Profile
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s programme, or a recent graduate (within the past six months) in a relevant field such as environmental policy, economics, international development, finance, or a closely‑related discipline.
- Strong interest in climate finance, sustainable development, and international cooperation.
- Excellent analytical and research skills, with the ability to produce high‑quality written outputs in English; proficiency in German and/or French or Spanish is considered an advantage.
- Proficiency in MS Office tools (especially Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with data visualisation tools is beneficial.
- Ability to work independently and as part of an international team, with high intercultural sensitivity and strong organisational skills.
- Prior internship or voluntary experience in development cooperation, climate change, or finance is a plus but not mandatory.
What GIZ Offers
- A fully-funded internship with a reputable international cooperation organisation, providing real-world exposure to climate finance mechanisms and global development cooperation.
- An opportunity to work in Bonn, in a professional and globally oriented environment, interacting with international experts, partner institutions, and donor initiatives.
- Professional growth through hands-on tasks, networking possibilities, and direct engagement in high-impact climate finance work.
- A chance to contribute meaningfully to enabling developing countries to access climate finance supporting their efforts to adapt to and mitigate climate change.
- An inclusive and diverse work environment where candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Application Process
To apply, submit your application via the GIZ job portal or the official vacancy listing. Your application should include:
- A cover letter articulating your motivation for the internship, interest in climate finance, and how your background aligns with the role.
- A curriculum vitae (CV) with relevant academic and professional experience.
- Transcripts of academic records or proof of enrolment/graduation.
- References or recommendation letters (if available).
Applications must be completed online, and only online applications will be considered. Ensure that your eligibility (enrolment status or recency of graduation) aligns with the internship requirements.
Additional Notes
- Applicants must be enrolled at a university or have graduated no more than six months prior to the internship start date.
- The internship is based in Germany (Bonn) and is full-time for a six-month duration.
- GIZ is strongly committed to promoting diversity and equal opportunity; applications from persons of all genders, nationalities, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and persons with disabilities are welcome.
- While German and other language skills are beneficial, full professional proficiency in English is required.
- The stipend is pre-tax (“gross”), and applicants should factor in living costs in Germany.
This internship offers a strong entry-point for those aspiring to work at the intersection of climate finance, policy, and international development. It provides a practical opportunity to contribute to global climate action while developing professional skills and international experience.
Organization: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH
Location: Bonn, Germany
Duration: 18 February 2026 – 17 August 2026 (six months)
Stipend: €2,205.04 gross per month
Programme: “Partnering for Readiness” – supporting partner countries to access and manage international climate finance
