Job description
VentureForge Labs is seeking a dynamic Entrepreneurship Program Manager to lead our Austin-based startup initiative. You will partner with founders, universities, and investors to foster a thriving ecosystem and accelerate early-stage ventures.
In this role, you’ll design and run programs that transform aspiring founders into investor-ready teams, create actionable roadmaps, and connect participants with experienced mentors and resources.
We’re looking for a proactive leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, values collaboration, and has a track record of delivering measurable outcomes for startups and partners alike.
Responsibility
- Lead the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of entrepreneurship programs for early-stage startups in the Austin ecosystem.
- Build and manage partnerships with universities, coworking spaces, accelerators, investors, and community organizations.
- Develop curricula, workshops, and mentorship networks that accelerate product-market fit and fundraising readiness.
- Recruit, onboard, and manage a diverse team of mentors, facilitators, and program staff.
- Oversee program budgeting, scheduling, milestones, and success metrics; report progress to leadership and partners.
- Coordinate events such as demo days, pitch sessions, and founder roundtables to showcase portfolio startups.
- Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to founders, helping them validate ideas and scale operations.
Qualification
- 7+ years’ experience in entrepreneurship, venture development, or startup operations; track record of program delivery.
- Proven ability to design and scale entrepreneur-focused programs and curricula.
- Strong network within the Austin startup ecosystem and with regional universities, investors, and accelerators.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
- Demonstrated project management discipline with the ability to manage multiple programs and stakeholders.
- Bachelor’s degree in business, entrepreneurship, or a related field (MBA or equivalent preferred).
- Data-driven mindset with experience using metrics to inform program decisions.