Wadhwani Foundation - SME Program Manager

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.

Qualifications & Experience:

- 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.