2026 Venture Capital Business Development Summer Associate
About The Position
The Portfolio Impact Summer Associate will work alongside the Portfolio Impact team to support our portfolio companies through business and corporate development. Specifically, you will build relationships with technologists at global companies and provide thoughtful, curated recommendations of StepStone portfolio companies that are relevant to their interests and priorities. Those recommendations are based informed by research and insights we gather via fund and portfolio company relationships. This unique role provides meaningful exposure to some of the top investors and operators within venture capital. Further, the Summer Associate position is an excellent opportunity to gather perspective on the venture industry, hone your business development skills, and develop an understanding of the technology trends shaping our future.
Requirements
- Graduating from an MBA program in Winter 2026 or Spring 2027
- Prior experience in entrepreneurial and/or business development roles
- Demonstrated track record of academic and professional success
- Willingness to go above and beyond to generate exceptional results for the team
- Compelling and charismatic communicator who is comfortable interfacing with senior executives
- Strong understanding of and interest in technology and venture ecosystem; pays close attention to technology trends and can articulate prospective long-term implications for the industry
Responsibilities
- Conduct Market Research: Identify potential customers or partners for portfolio companies by researching industry trends, key players, and target markets.
- Support Relationship Building: Assist in nurturing relationships with key contacts by organizing meetings, sharing relevant materials, and ensuring a professional follow-up process.
- Collaborate with Portfolio Companies: Work closely with portfolio company teams to understand their product offerings, target customer profiles, and sales strategies.
- Facilitate Warm Introductions: Coordinate and execute outreach to potential customers, using email, phone, or events, to introduce portfolio companies and their solutions.
- Develop Target Lists: Maintain the firm's database of corporate relationships and identify new prospective partners, leveraging tools like LinkedIn, CRM platforms, and industry directories.
- Track and Report Progress: Monitor the status of introductions, follow-ups, and outcomes; provide regular updates to the firm and our portfolio companies.
- Optimize Introduction Processes: Propose and implement improvements to the introduction workflow to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Benefits
- At StepStone, we foster a supportive and inclusive team culture where collaboration and learning are the core of what we do.
- Our collegial atmosphere encourages teamwork, mentorship, and professional development.
- This summer internship is a great opportunity to gain practical experience and develop critical skills that will help you launch a successful career in venture capital.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
Industry
Securities, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial Investments and Related Activities
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
