A leading foundation dedicated to accelerating economic development and job creation in emerging economies. They focus on driving large-scale initiatives that support entrepreneurship, empower small and medium businesses (SMBs), and strengthen innovation ecosystems through strategic partnerships and capacity building.

Role Overview

The Program Manager is responsible for driving the SMB ecosystem development within their respective city. They will lead all ecosystem-related initiatives, manage key stakeholders, and ensure alignment with the national strategy. They will work closely with government bodies, incubators, accelerators, corporates, and investors to enhance the vibrancy of the startup ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

Ecosystem Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and execute a regional ecosystem development strategy, ensuring alignment with national objectives.
• Build a thriving SMB and Startup ecosystem by fostering collaboration among key stakeholders.
• Lead ecosystem mapping efforts, identifying gaps and opportunities in the hub’s startup landscape.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships

• Develop and maintain relationships with incubators, accelerators, investors, SMB, government agencies, and corporates.
• Foster cross-hub collaboration, ensuring best practices and shared knowledge are leveraged across regions.
• Act as a liaison between state government startup missions and central policy initiatives.

Program Oversight & Execution

• Oversee the SMB and Startup Portfolio Sourcing & Management teams to ensure high-quality program delivery.
• Guide startups and SMBs through funding readiness programs, investor connects, and market access initiatives.
• Support the creation of tailored programs in high-impact sectors (deep tech, biotech, cleantech, etc.).

Impact Measurement & Reporting

• Track ecosystem performance through key metrics, including revenues, customers, pilots, startup funding, job creation, and collaboration.
• Publish periodic reports on ecosystem health and program effectiveness.
• Leverage data-driven insights to refine strategies and interventions.

• 8–12 years in ecosystem development, startup incubation, venture building, or government-led entrepreneurship programs.
• Strong experience in stakeholder engagement, strategic partnerships, and program execution.
• Understanding of startup funding, innovation ecosystems, and government support structures.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Familiarity with the startup landscape in India’s key hubs is a plus.

The opportunity to lead a transformative regional initiative with a massive, tangible impact on job creation and economic growth giving you high-level exposure and networking opportunities with key government officials, top-tier investors, and leading ecosystem enablers. It's a strategic leadership role within a mission-driven organization focused on sustainable, large-scale entrepreneurial success.