Program Manager - Deep Tech Startup Programs (m/f/d)

Start2 Group is the global partner of growth-oriented startups, companies, investors and governments to scale new business models. The Group supports all key milestones in the development of innovation and growth – from the first fundraising to international expansion.

Since its founding in 2008, Start2 Group has played a key role in innovation ecosystems in Europe, America, South America, Asia and the United Arab Emirates.

The Start2 Group is looking for a program manager for deep-tech programs from Gateway Factory to support ambitious startups on their way to international scaleup and to actively shape a unique partner ecosystem. The Gateway Factory is the European Deep-Tech hub in the Rhineland. The role combines program design, start-up coaching, project management and stakeholder management.

Your tasks:

1. Program design & implementation Planning, development and implementation of deep-tech programs on topics such as Customer Discovery & Validation, Business Readiness and Investor Readiness Translation of market trends, technology topics and best practices in relevant workshop and learning formats Ensuring a smooth program run of startups – from onboarding to support to graduation
2. Start-up coaching & accompaniment Moderation and implementation of workshop sessions, mentor matching and strategic discussion formats Consolidation and analysis of program knowledge and start-up and mentor feedback
3. Operational Project & Process Management (PMO)Structure, Priority and Coordination of All Program Activities Use of modern tools (e.g. HubSpot, Notion, ChatGPT) to increase efficiency Maintaining central program codes and databases for success measurement
4. Stakeholder & Network Management Building and maintenance of a relevant network with mentors, investors and partners in the national and international innovation ecosystem Identification and addressing of suitable European startups and partner organisations Secure exchange with external stakeholders, including presentations and presentations of the program
5. Community, Communication & EventsSetting up and maintaining an active program community through structured communication and targeted knowledge sharing Support for event planning and implementation Professional presentations for internal and external stakeholders

Experience in startup, innovation or entrepreneurship programs or comparable business services Practical experience in startup/deep-tech environment, ideally with start-up and coaching experience Secure understanding of scaling challenges of startups Existing network in the German and European startup and investment community Very strong communication, moderation and presentation skills Ability to structure complex content clearly and align all stakeholders High proactivity, solution orientation and resilience Passion for Deep Tech, Entrepreneurship and the support of young startup teams Quick understanding and high level of learning Clear team orientation and joy in collaborative work German knowledge of C2 level; good English knowledge in the professional context Ready to work in Düsseldorf/Köln Experience with program data, reporting or KPI monitoring Readiness to travel up to 10% within Germany

Various tasks in the national and international innovation landscape, close to startups and their development Future-oriented, dynamic environment at the interface of corporates, startup scenes and universities High design playroom: freedom to try new ideas, formats and tools and actively develop programs Respectful working environment with real responsibility, independent ownership and trust Direct Hands-on-Impact: Design of formats that enable measurable progress in startups Professional development in coaching, PMO, stakeholder management and program design Exchange with experienced innovation experts: Work in an ambitious team that tackles challenges together and lives a strong learning culture Individual development and promotion opportunities in a growing, innovative environment