Startup Catalyst - Happy Valley LaunchBox
About The Position
Nestled in the core of State College, PA, the Happy Valley LaunchBox (HVLB) emerges as a hub of entrepreneurial vibrancy within the modern confines of the Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub. HVLB seeks qualified applicants for the role of a Startup Catalyst. The position serves as a confluence of academia, innovation, and public service, inviting a diverse community, students, and visionary leaders to catalyze economic and entrepreneurial growth at Penn State University Park Campus and the wider Happy Valley area. Rooted in the history of a land-grant institution, the commitment to societal impact is carried forward through innovative and entrepreneurial initiatives. Since 2015, Invent Penn State has been at the forefront of entrepreneurship and innovation, providing programs, tools, and resources that fast-track great ideas to the marketplace, contributing significantly to economic development within Pennsylvania and beyond. Coordinated by the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization, this endeavor reaches across the university's twenty-four campuses, incorporating all academic colleges, institutes, and centers, fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports Penn State faculty, staff, students, and local innovators.
Requirements
- Proficiency in startup environments, with a focus on mentorship and strategic program execution.
- Entrepreneurial experience, as a founder or working closely with the founding team.
- A proponent of entrepreneurial methods, ready to engage with and implement cutting-edge ideas.
- Technological proficiency and comfortability with diverse digital platforms.
- Superior interpersonal skills, capable of creating and maintaining robust, collaborative relationships.
- Bachelor's Degree
- 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Responsibilities
- Support the delivery of entrepreneurship programs, mentorship, and will be actively involved in educational and community-building activities that advance startup success throughout the University Park campus and Happy Valley, thereby playing a key part in enhancing the entrepreneurial landscape of Happy Valley LaunchBox.
- Steer new startups through the stages of testing, building, and launching their concepts into viable businesses, providing more than resources and knowledge, but a blend of coaching and mentorship to furnish entrepreneurs with essential guidance and tools for the complexities of business inception.
- Aid in creating and implementing a comprehensive variety of programs tailored to support startups at varying stages of development, overseeing the journey from a new idea to a fully-fledged business launch, guaranteeing extensive and ongoing support for each group.
- Foster an active startup culture within Happy Valley. As a catalyst, engagement with entrepreneurs and the promotion of the startup ethos on campus and in the local community are fundamental duties, necessitating proactive university and community involvement.
- Engage with campus departments to conduct stimulating workshops that energize students and faculty. Contributing significantly to the ENTI (Entrepreneurship) minor and other academic initiatives, the role is crucial in awakening the entrepreneurial spirit among students, encouraging them to explore entrepreneurship as a career.
- Advance strategic initiatives that fortify the local entrepreneurial ecosystem with an enjoyable, startup-focused culture.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Robust retirement plans
- Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
- 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
