During my internship at Moby Filters, a Columbia-backed cleantech startup combatting microplastic pollution by capturing and reusing microplastics from textiles during washing and manufacturing, I sought to expand my professional skills beyond sustainability communications and explore new sectors. As the Fundraising and Policy Intern, I conducted legislative research and tracked policies related to microplastic pollution in the United States and globally. I wrote ten applications for various funding opportunities—including awards, incubators and accelerators, grants, and pitches to venture-capital firms. Since Moby is early-stage and funding is critical, I was pleased to help the team prepare numerous applications while improving my own research and writing skills. I also helped build Moby’s digital footprint by revamping its LinkedIn profile. In addition to these primary responsibilities, I created and implemented a communications strategy and assisted with operational tasks.

During my first semester of my master’s program (spring 2025), I took a course on water and climate systems. For my semester project, I researched the impacts of microfiber pollution on aquatic ecosystems. Because this is exactly the issue Moby Filters addresses, I began the internship well-informed and applied my knowledge across tasks. I also took a course on environmental policy in the United States, which taught me to research and understand original policy documents, such as bill text, and synthesize key takeaways—skills critical for Moby to navigate changing political dynamics. The CEO’s expertise further deepened my understanding, especially regarding sustainable solutions and how the private sector can be leveraged to address environmental challenges. This internship complemented my academic experience and professional pursuits.

One challenge I encountered was adapting my writing style for different funding opportunities. I wrote ten applications across multiple funding types and geographic regions, including general grants; scientific and academic research grants; applications to venture-capital firms; international awards aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals; and technical accelerator and incubator programs. Each application demanded a distinct writing style and lens. Applications to venture-capital firms needed to emphasize business viability and scalability, whereas applications to international impact awards needed to highlight potential for large-scale social and environmental impact. Coming from a nonprofit background aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, impact-focused writing came naturally; business-focused, technical applications were more challenging. With guidance from the CEO and professional grant writers, I learned to articulate the business case, understand reviewer priorities, and tailor my writing accordingly.

This internship was a fantastic opportunity to further explore my interest in water issues, gain exposure to the startup sector, and develop practical skills in research, writing, fundraising, and communications. As a sustainability management student, I often focus on environmental problems rather than solutions. Contributing to a viable climate solution with significant impact potential was both exciting and uplifting. Working alongside other startups at the Columbia Startup Lab and Newlab was inspiring; I observed diverse approaches to addressing major environmental challenges. This experience sparked my interest in the startup ecosystem, and I am eager to explore roles that combine sustainability, innovation, and impact after graduation.