Executive, VentureStudio

3 weeks ago

Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India Ahmedabad University Full time

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Ecosystem Catalyst to lead high-impact initiatives at VentureStudio. This role is critical for designing, executing, and scaling startup programs and events that engage students, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a passion for innovation, strong digital literacy, and proven experience in community building and program management.

As an Ecosystem Catalyst, you will be responsible for creating meaningful connections between startups, mentors, investors, and industry experts while driving VentureStudio's mission to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

Program Design & Execution

  • Support entrepreneurship programs, including accelerators, workshops, mentoring clinics, and networking events across our facilities (Coworking, DST Prayas Shala, Bio-NEST) and virtually
  • Plan and facilitate 30+ events annually, engaging 1,000+ participants
  • Coordinate with domain experts, speakers, and mentors from across the country
  • Manage event and program logistics, timelines, and deliverables to ensure successful outcomes

Startup & Student Engagement

  • Provide support to founders and early-stage entrepreneurs
  • Support students through one-on-one sessions, brainstorming, and startup ideation
  • Conduct awareness sessions on grant applications, funding opportunities, and incubation

Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Building

  • Establish and maintain partnerships with organizations like Hubspot, eChai, and other ecosystem enablers
  • Represent VentureStudio at conferences, roundtables, and industry events
  • Build strategic collaborations with universities, corporates, and government agencies
  • Organize community mixers and networking events to strengthen ecosystem connections

Grant Support & Outreach

  • Lead outreach campaigns for government funding schemes (GoG, SSP, SISFS, SSIP, EIR)
  • Support startups in grant application processes and compliance requirements
  • Track and manage pipeline of 1,000+ startup applications across various schemes

Digital Marketing & Community Management

  • Drive digital visibility initiatives
  • Manage social media campaigns and content creation using Canva and other design tools
  • Build and maintain an innovation community database
  • Create compelling visual content for programs, events, and marketing materials
  • Utilise generative AI tools for content creation, program optimisation, and automation

Data Tracking & Analytics

  • Monitor and track program metrics, including participation rates, engagement levels, and conversion rates
  • Maintain databases of startup applications, mentorship hours, and community engagement
  • Generate reports on program impact and ecosystem growth
  • Provide data-driven insights for program improvement and strategic planning

Required Skills & Qualifications

Essential Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Engineering, or related field
  • 2-3 years of experience in program management, startup ecosystem, or business development
  • Proficiency in Canva for creating visually appealing marketing materials, presentations, and program collaterals
  • Social Media expertise across , Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms for community building and program promotion
  • Generative AI proficiency, including ChatGPT, Claude, or similar tools for content creation, automation, and process optimisation
  • Strong project management and organisational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

Technical Skills

  • Digital literacy with the ability to quickly adopt new technologies and tools
  • Experience with email marketing platforms (Brevo, Mailchimp)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
  • Basic understanding of CRM systems and database management
  • Familiarity with event management and registration platforms

Entrepreneurship & Ecosystem Knowledge

  • Understanding of the startup ecosystem, funding landscape, and entrepreneurship trends
  • Knowledge of government schemes and funding programs for startups
  • Experience in mentoring entrepreneurs and early-stage startups
  • Understanding of accelerator programs, incubation processes, and venture capital

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional networking and relationship-building abilities
  • Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
  • Creative problem-solving and innovative thinking
  • Emotionally balanced with efficient time management
  • Comfortable with public speaking and representing organisation at events

Preferred Qualifications

  • MBA or advanced degree in relevant field
  • Startup experience as founder, early employee, or consultant
  • Grant writing experience and familiarity with government funding processes
  • Design thinking and user experience background
  • Partnership development experience with corporates and institutions
  • International exposure to global startup ecosystems