We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Hub Lead - Ecosystem Development to serve as the overall strategic owner for driving the startup and SMB ecosystem development within their respective city. You will lead all ecosystem-related initiatives, manage key stakeholders, and ensure alignment with our national strategy. Working closely with government bodies, incubators, accelerators, corporates, and investors, you will be instrumental in enhancing the vibrancy and growth of the startup ecosystem in your hub.
Key Responsibilities
- Ecosystem Strategy Leadership :
- Develop and execute a robust regional ecosystem development strategy , ensuring strong alignment with national objectives.
- Build a thriving startup and SMB ecosystem by fostering seamless collaboration among all key stakeholders.
- Lead comprehensive ecosystem mapping efforts, meticulously identifying gaps and opportunities within the hub's startup landscape.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships :
- Develop and maintain strong, productive relationships with incubators, accelerators, investors, SMBs, government agencies, and corporates .
- Foster cross-hub collaboration , ensuring best practices and shared knowledge are effectively leveraged across all regions.
- Act as a crucial liaison between state government startup missions and central policy initiatives.
- Program Oversight & Execution :
- Oversee the Startup and SMB Portfolio Sourcing & Management teams to ensure high-quality program delivery and execution.
- Guide startups and SMBs through critical funding readiness programs, investor connects, and market access initiatives .
- Support the creation of tailored programs in high-impact sectors (e.g., deep tech, biotech, cleantech).
- Impact Measurement & Reporting :
- Track ecosystem performance through essential key metrics , including revenues, customer acquisition, pilot programs, startup funding secured, job creation, and overall collaboration levels.
- Publish periodic reports detailing ecosystem health and program effectiveness .
- Leverage data-driven insights to continually refine strategies and interventions for optimal impact.
Qualifications & Experience
Extensive experience in ecosystem development, startup incubation, venture building, or government-led entrepreneurship programs .Strong proven experience in stakeholder engagement, strategic partnerships, and program execution .A solid 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 hub (Chennai) is a significant advantage.Skills Required
ecosystem management , Strategic Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, program monitoring, Reporting, strategic partnerships