Program Manager (Accelerators & Strategic Programs)
Purpose Statement
We are hiring a highly organized and execution-focused Program Manager to lead and manage our participation in global accelerators, incubators, venture studios, and non-dilutive funding programs. This role owns the end-to-end application pipeline from identifying the right programs to preparing submissions, coordinating materials, and ensuring we consistently secure placements in high-value startup programs worldwide.
You will work closely with founders and leadership to position the company for acceptance into top-tier programs and maximize strategic opportunities.
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
1. Program & Accelerator Pipeline Management
Research and maintain a database of relevant:
Accelerators
Incubators
Venture studios
Government innovation programs
Grants and competitions
Track deadlines, requirements, and eligibility
Prioritize programs based on strategic fit
Maintain a rolling 3–6 month application calendar
Deliverable: Clear, organized pipeline of all upcoming opportunities.
2. Application Preparation & Submission
Lead preparation of all application materials, including:
Written responses and essays
Pitch deck customization
Founder bios
Product descriptions
Metrics and traction summaries
Financial data
Demo materials
Ensure:
High-quality submissions
Consistent storytelling
Zero missed deadlines
Deliverable: On-time, polished applications across all target programs.
3. Founder & Leadership Coordination
Gather required information from founders and teams
Translate internal information into strong application narratives
Prepare briefing documents for leadership
Ensure alignment across materials
Deliverable: Well-prepared founders and consistent messaging.
4. Interview & Selection Support
Prepare founders for accelerator interviews
Build Q&A prep documents
Run mock sessions
Manage follow-ups with program teams
Deliverable: Interview-ready teams and timely follow-up.
5. Strategic Program Tracking
Track acceptance rates and outcomes
Recommend which programs to prioritize
Monitor ecosystem opportunities globally
Suggest timing for applications
Deliverable: Quarterly program strategy updates.
6. Grant & Non-Dilutive Funding Applications
Identify relevant grants and competitions
Coordinate application materials
Manage submission timelines
Track outcomes
Deliverable: Ongoing pipeline of grant opportunities.
KPIs / Success Metrics
Number of high-quality applications submitted per quarter
Acceptance/interview rate
Total programs secured
Non-dilutive funding secured
Timeliness of submissions
Strength of application pipeline
Quality of documentation and tracking
Requirements
Minimum 3 – 6 years experience in Startup operations, Program management, Venture capital support roles, Founder associate roles, Accelerator or incubator environments
Strong writing and editing skills
Exceptional organizational ability
Ability to manage multiple deadlines
Strong research skills
Comfortable working directly with founders
Experience applying to or working with: YC, Techstars, Antler, Global accelerators
Grant writing experience
Startup ecosystem knowledge
Deck editing experience
Familiarity with Notion, Airtable, or similar tools
Key Traits
Highly proactive
Detail-oriented
Structured thinker
Fast executor
Strong communicator
Comfortable in fast-moving startup environments
Tools & Systems; Notion / Airtable, Google Workspace
Pitch decks
Data rooms
CRM tools
Application portals
Benefits
Professional development opportunities.
A collaborative and inclusive work culture that fosters growth and innovation.
Opportunity to work with cutting-edge products and technologies.
Supportive and approachable management team dedicated to your success.
Competitive salary package with performance-based bonuses tied to acceptances
Equity (optional depending on seniority)