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 Preferred Qualifications 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)