Government Relations Internship, DC |Summer 2026| Cherokee Nation Businesses
District of Columbia, USA
Posted 3 months ago
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Job Description
Where Future Leaders and Purpose Meet
Are you a driven Cherokee Nation citizen ready to take your education to the next level? At Cherokee Nation Businesses (CNB), we offer more than an internship, we provide a launching pad for the next generation of leaders. Our internship program is a dynamic, impactful, hands-on experience that puts you at the center of meaningful work and real career development.
Why CNB?
Cherokee Nation Businesses is a diverse, tribally owned enterprise committed to innovation, economic growth, and cultural preservation. With operations spanning federal contracting, gaming and hospitality, and community development, CNB is a force for progress, guided by purpose, rooted in values, and focused on people.
At CNB, you won’t just learn, you’ll lead, contribute, and grow.
What to Expect from the Internship Experience
Meaningful Work:
What Interns Learn
- How Federal Indian policy is made and implemented.
- How the Cherokee Nation advances self-governance and development.
- How legislative processes work at the Federal level. How to develop an independent policy research project.
What the Intern Experience includes:
- Developing an internship long research project.
- Attending hearings on Capitol Hill and meetings with the DC Office staff.
- Assisting staff with research projects and meeting notes.
- Weekly/ Biweekly lunches with other interns in Congressional offices.
- Connect with Udall interns, and other Native Orgs interns.
- Weekly/ Biweekly DC experiences in the City on Fridays Examples: Capitol Tour, White House Tour, NMAI Visit, National Archives Visit, US Holocaust Memorial Museum, etc.
Professional Development
You’ll be paired with mentors who are leaders and subject matter experts and are invested in your success—guiding your career exploration and helping you build lifelong professional skills.
We believe in growing our own. Interns participate in exclusive workshops, networking events, and career-building sessions, equipping you to thrive in any field.
What We’re Looking For
This is a competitive program for high-potential, purpose-driven Cherokee students. We’re seeking candidates who are:
- Cherokee Nation citizens with a valid CDIB or Cherokee Nation Citizenship card
- Currently enrolled in a 4-year accredited institution or an accredited graduate or professional degree program
- Maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Possessing strong communication, collaboration, and independent problem-solving skills Curious, enthusiastic, and ready to make an impact
Program Details
- Duration: From late May to early August
- Compensation: Is based on your college class status. Location: DC office
Housing Options:
- Washington Intern Housing Network Intern Housing Washington DC | WISH
Perks of the Program
- Real-world experience with a leading tribally owned enterprise
- Opportunities to network across CNB business units
- A supportive, mission-driven culture that honors heritage
- Resume-worthy projects and measurable contributions A foot in the door at one of the largest tribally-owned business entities in the U.S.
Applications for the 2026 CNB Summer Internship Program are now open.
Please attach a cover letter, resume and two references along with a writing sample in .doc format.
Spots are limited, and competition is strong—submit your application today!
Let’s Build the Future, Together.
At Cherokee Nation Businesses, your success is our success. If you’re ready to gain experience, grow professionally, and give back to your community, all while honoring your Cherokee identity, this is the internship for you.
- Guided by our Shared Enterprise Values:
- Work with Purpose, Serve with Purpose
- Gadugi - Work together for the common good
- Exemplify Integrity in everything we do
- Be Intentional in planning & Committed in delivery
- Your work has a lasting impact. CNB reinvests 63% of our profits back into the company reinvesting in our core businesses, funding our growth and further creating opportunities for our employees. The other 37% of our profits are delivered to the Cherokee Nation as a dividend to support crucial programs & services that improve the lives the Cherokee citizens & our communities.
Cherokee Nation Businesses
Cherokee Nation Businesses is the tribally owned holding company of Cherokee Nation — the largest Native American tribe in the U.S.Our mission is to promote the economic wellbeing of Cherokee Nation by delivering tremendous value to our customers, communities and markets we serve.
