Wadhwani Foundation - Growth Success - SMB

Role Overview:

The Growth Success - SMB professional will be responsible for identifying, onboarding, and enabling high-potential Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) within the assigned hub. The role focuses on driving business growth through corporate partnerships, market access, funding facilitation, and strategic advisory. This position plays a critical role in strengthening the SMB ecosystem by connecting businesses with the right opportunities, resources, and stakeholders.

1. SMB Identification & Engagement:

- Identify and source high-potential SMBs through collaboration with industry bodies, government agencies, and corporate networks.

- Partner with organizations such as CII, FICCI, and NASSCOM to build a strong SMB pipeline.

- Facilitate onboarding of SMBs into structured growth programs aligned with market and industry requirements.

- Establish and maintain relationships with corporate accelerators and government-led support initiatives.

2. Scaling & Market Access:

- Enable SMB's to secure corporate partnerships, pilot opportunities, and B2B engagements.

- Provide strategic guidance on market expansion and achieving product-market fit.

- Support SMBs in accessing and navigating public procurement opportunities.

3. Alternative Financing & Investment Readiness:

- Assist SMBs in accessing diverse funding avenues, including grants, debt, and impact investments.

- Connect businesses with government-backed financing schemes and alternative funding sources.

- Organize investor connects, including interactions with angel networks and micro-VCs.

4. Tracking & Impact Measurement:

- Monitor and track SMB performance metrics such as revenue growth, job creation, and funding raised.

- Develop case studies and success stories to highlight program impact and attract stakeholders.

- Provide insights and recommendations to strengthen the SMB ecosystem within the hub.

Required Qualifications, Skills & Experience:

Experience:

- 4-7 years of experience working with SMBs, startups, industry bodies, or corporate innovation ecosystems.

Core Skills:

- Strong understanding of business scaling, go-to-market strategies, and market access.

- Knowledge of alternative financing mechanisms, including grants, venture funding, and debt instruments.

- Experience in managing corporate partnerships and stakeholder engagement.

- Familiarity with public procurement processes (preferred).

Key Competencies:

- Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.

- Strong business advisory and problem-solving capabilities.

- Effective project management and execution skills.

- Ability to work cross-functionally and drive impact in a fast-paced environment.