Founder Success Lead (2SLGBTQI+)
The Founder Success Lead is a vital advocate and connector within our
startup ecosystem, with a focus on supporting founders who identify as part of
the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Drawing on both professional expertise and
lived experience, this individual provides personalized mentorship and
guidance to help entrepreneurs overcome systemic barriers, access
resources, and develop sustainable ventures. They foster inclusion by
championing the unique experiences and strengths of these founders,
ensuring they are equipped with the tools, connections, and opportunities to
thrive.
Key Responsibilities:
Ecosystem Connection & Founder Advocacy
• Serve as the primary point of contact for prospective and current
2SLGBTQIA+ founders and ecosystem partners.
• Build trusting relationships by offering relatable, culturally informed
support that acknowledges the diverse identities and challenges faced
by these founders.
• Act as a connector between entrepreneurs and relevant ecosystem
resources, ensuring access to funding, mentorship, educational
opportunities, and more.
Founder Support & Development
• Collaborate with founders to create individualized success plans,
helping them define goals, identify milestones, and track progress.
• Provide mentorship and ongoing support to help founders navigate
personal and professional challenges, such as accessing capital,
scaling their businesses, or overcoming bias in the startup ecosystem.
• Offer tailored advice that reflects an understanding of intersectionality,
recognizing how race, gender identity, sexuality, and other factors
shape each founder’s experience.
Program & Mentorship Coordination
• Coordinate mentorship initiatives that connect founders with
experienced mentors from both within and outside the 2SLGBTQIA+
community.
• Lead recruitment, assessment, and onboarding of new founders into
startup programs.
• Collaborate with external experts, consultants, and community partners
to strengthen program offerings and delivery.
• Support the development of new initiatives and workshops aimed at
addressing challenges faced by underrepresented founders.
Community Building & Networking
• Create safe, affirming spaces through events, workshops, and peer
networking opportunities where founders can share experiences,
collaborate, and learn.
• Facilitate meaningful introductions between founders, mentors,
partners, and stakeholders to expand their professional networks.
Strategic Insights & Ecosystem Growth
• Stay informed on industry trends, policy changes, and market
developments that impact 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs.
• Advocate for policies and practices that promote equity, inclusion, and
access to opportunities within the startup ecosystem.
• Support organizational growth by identifying and implementing best
practices for inclusive program delivery.
Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Commerce, or a related
field.
• Entrepreneurial experience (as a founder or in a related role).
• Experience working with or advocating for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities,
with a deep understanding of their needs and challenges.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong collaboration skills, particularly when working with diverse teams
and stakeholders.
Skills
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills
• Ability to engage others & deep listening skills
• Ability to find & disseminate or share resources efficiently
• French fluency (written and verbal) is considered an asset