Undergraduate Intern – Communications & Marketing

About KC2026: 

Kansas City is one of 16 Host Cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026™—the largest sporting event in the world. As the only Host City in the central U.S., Kansas City is preparing to welcome hundreds of thousands of fans from around the globe and showcase the region on a historic global stage. KC2026 is focused on delivering an unforgettable tournament experience while driving long-term economic, cultural, and community impact. 

Role Overview 

The KC2026 Communications & Marketing Undergraduate Intern is a paid internship and will support Kansas City’s efforts as a FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host City by contributing to key communications, public relations, and digital marketing initiatives. This intern will play an integral role in crafting and distributing content, coordinating media and brand activations, managing digital platforms, and supporting strategic messaging that amplifies Kansas City’s position on the global stage. This is a hands-on opportunity to gain experience in media relations, social media, digital storytelling, community engagement, and campaign execution within one of the world’s largest sporting events. 

To apply, please submit the following to btenbrink@sportkc.org

• Read the Roles and Responsibilities below
• Resume
• Short written response (300 words max): Pick one prompt from the following list and tell us why you want to be part of the KC2026 journey.

1."Why Kansas City?"

• What makes Kansas City special to you, and why are you excited to represent it on the world stage through KC2026?

2."Creating Impact Through Sport"

• How do you believe global events like the FIFA World Cup can make a lasting impact in local communities — and why do you want to be part of that work in Kansas City?

3."Your KC2026 Why"

• What excites you most about contributing to Kansas City's journey as a FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City, and what unique perspective or passion would you bring to the team?

4."Kansas City. Global Stage."

• How would you use this opportunity to help Kansas City shine on a global stage, and what does that responsibility mean to you personally or professionally?

5."Legacy in Action"

• What does the word “legacy” mean to you in the context of a global sporting event like the World Cup — and how would you help KC2026 deliver one?

Key Responsibilities 

• Content Creation & Messaging: Assist in writing and editing press releases, blog posts, email campaigns, website updates, social media content, and internal communications. 
• Media Relations: Support media outreach efforts, prepare briefing materials for interviews, help coordinate logistics for press events, and assist with on-site support. 
• Digital Engagement: Assist in managing KC2026 social media accounts, including content planning, community management, and performance analytics. Monitor online trends, fan sentiment, and engagement metrics. 
• Event Support: Help capture and curate behind-the-scenes content at activations, media events, and community programs. 
• Community & Stakeholder Communications: Develop materials for civic leaders, sponsors, and community partners, ensuring message consistency across platforms. 
• Brand & Campaign Execution: Assist in planning and executing digital and on-site marketing campaigns, 
• Speakers Bureau & Presentations: Help coordinate scheduling, presentation development, and messaging prep for KC2026 Speakers Bureau engagements. 
• Administrative & Project Management: Support scheduling, calendar coordination, asset management, and collaboration with agency partners to ensure seamless project execution. 

Ideal Candidate 

• Currently a rising senior in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Digital Media, Journalism, or a related field. 
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a creative mindset. 
• Familiarity with social media platforms (Instagram, Twitter/X, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook) and digital tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or video editing software is a plus). 
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, high-profile environment. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with PR/marketing tools (Cision, Meltwater, scheduling platforms) is a bonus. 
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and a passion for global sports, storytelling, and community impact. 
• Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays as needed. 

Application Deadline: Applications will be received on a rolling basis, anticipated closing date Thursday, April 10th, 2025

Anticipated Program Length: Early June-> Mid-August