Program Specialist

Communitech Technology Association•Kitchener, ON

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Communitech helps tech companies start, grow, and succeed in Waterloo Region by building a tech ecosystem that is local, globally ambitious, and community-powered. Since 1997, Communitech has fostered Canada's most vibrant innovation ecosystem by connecting startups and scale-ups with the resources they need. This includes supporting trusted AI solutions, developing valuable IP, expanding founder networks, and advocating for the tech community through the Waterloo Tech Coalition. Their goal is to maintain Waterloo Region as the leading tech hub in Canada. Communitech is seeking passionate individuals who believe in their mission and are dedicated to founder success, thrive in collaborative environments, and are champions for Canadian tech. The organization is based in downtown Kitchener, Ontario, and emphasizes in-office work five days a week to foster collaboration and strengthen relationships within the team and the ecosystem. The Program Specialist role reports to the VP, Programs & Services and is responsible for the development, implementation, and execution of products and services for the Elevate IP Program. This federally funded initiative aims to improve equitable access to IP protection awareness, strategy mentorship, coaching, and funding for IP strategy development and implementation. The Program Specialist will support the creation and delivery of information sessions and materials to raise program awareness among startups. Education and training will be delivered through various formats (videos, courses, workshops, self-assessment tools) and can be in-person, remote, or hybrid.

Requirements

1–3 years of relevant professional experience
Strong organizational skills with great attention to details
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Proven ability to effectively manage multiple concurrent requests and prioritize them based on impact and urgency
Passion for building relationships, providing outstanding customer service
Ability to handle and maintain confidential information with discretion and professionalism
Strong Google suite skills and collaborative tech usage
Ability to responsibly and ethically use generative AI tools to streamline workflows and increase efficiency in a professional setting
Willingness to represent Communitech at events outside of normal working hours on occasion

Nice To Haves

Experience with a learning management system is considered a strong asset; please indicate the platform you are familiar with in your application
Previous experience working with enabling or growth organizations, or supporting business-to-business sales, is an asset
Interest in cutting edge technology and its practical application(s) for our founders
Experience using Salesforce or a similar CRM is an asset

Responsibilities

Source and maintain a suite of materials, best practices, and/or training modules to support and train innovators on critical issues in delivering IP services to startups.
Compile and provide basic information about intellectual property (IP), why it’s important for startups, and what program elements are available to ensure startups can make informed education and program choices.
Outline local and regional support available to assist startups and how to access them (e.g. licensed service providers, self-assessment tools, and IP strategy resources).
Provide overviews on resources, expertise, and national initiatives available through the ElevateIP program and how to access them.
Support the delivery of educational workshops, roundtables, events, and information sessions.
Build relationships and work cross-functionally with multiple teams throughout the organization to help the success of our programs, marketing, and communications.
Collaborate with team members on marketing and outreach activities to increase ElevateIP program awareness and uptake (e.g. promoting program events and resources on social media, hosting program information session, etc.).
Develop and recommend processes and documentation to enable startups to find or access specialized training and support.
Working with the Senior Program Manager, coordinate and track contracts, partnership agreements and invoices, and events schedule.
Help recruit startups, innovators, and collaborators into the program.
Engage external vendors and partners to develop and provide advanced IP education/training for underrepresented groups, verticals, or sectors based on startup needs and gaps, in particular to meet the needs of underrepresented groups (including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous people, racialized groups, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ2S+ individuals), specific sectors, technologies, and focus areas, and special topics related to IP strategy and implementation.
Other duties as assigned. All duties subject to change.
Build relationships and work cross functionally with multiple teams throughout the organization to in support of the program delivery.
Provide support for internal team events both virtual and in person, such as team lunches, quarterly team meetings and any other team events.
Represent, support and be involved in other Communitech events as required.
Help recruit startups and other collaborators into the program.