Manager, Small Business Incubator

ABOUT INNOVATION WORKS (IW) 

IW envisions a Baltimore without a racial and spatial wealth gap. IW endeavors to accompany social entrepreneurs (SEs) choosing to harness their diverse life experiences and entrepreneurial spirit to lead enterprises aimed at addressing the distinct challenges faced by Baltimore’s historically disinvested communities. In doing so, we aim to foster an enhanced quality of life, greater resilience in our neighborhoods, and the creation of a more dynamic economy that allows every Baltimorean to thrive. 

ABOUT THE ROLE 

The Small Business Incubator Manager will oversee the incubator’s day-to-day operations, ensuring a collaborative and supportive environment for our cohort of entrepreneurs. This Full Time role is integral to the success of the entrepreneurs and the incubator, requiring a proactive and resourceful individual who excels at building connections and leveraging resources to support business growth. This position is a two-year role, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and organizational needs. 

Innovation Works is proud to partner with two esteemed local institutional partners to manage this small business incubator in downtown Baltimore. The incubator is specifically designed to support Black-owned businesses, offering comprehensive resources and a collaborative environment to up to 25 entrepreneurs per cohort. Together, we aim to drive economic growth and provide critical support to historically underserved communities in Baltimore. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

These responsibilities and tasks provide a comprehensive overview of the Strategic Initiatives Manager’s role in supporting the CEO and driving the successful execution of the organization’s strategic priorities. Each item is actionable and contributes to the organization’s overall effectiveness and alignment of strategic efforts. 

Cohort Management: 

Build and foster social connectivity among businesses within the 18-month cohorts. ○ Facilitate new and existing entrepreneurs’ recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding processes. ○ Engage with entrepreneurs 1:1 to assess needs, provide support, and connect them with relevant resources within the broader organization. 

Program Development and Implementation: 

Organize monthly “Lunch and Learn” sessions, inviting professional resources and industry experts from our network partners. 

Ensure the incubator space is fully utilized, optimizing the environment for collaboration and innovation. 

Resource Coordination: 

Identify and coordinate additional 1:1 support for entrepreneurs by tapping into the organization’s broader team and external networks. 

Maintain a pulse on the needs of entrepreneurs, aligning them with the appropriate resources

and opportunities.

Reporting and Evaluation:

Produce quarterly reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to the incubator’s operations, including entrepreneur progress, program effectiveness, and space utilization. ○ Use data-driven insights to improve the incubator’s offerings and outcomes continually.

Community and Network Building: 

Cultivate relationships with local businesses, industry professionals, and community organizations to enhance the incubator’s network and provide value-added services to the entrepreneurs. 

Represent the incubator at community events and forums to increase visibility and engagement. 

As an IW team member, you will be responsible for the following: 

  • Understanding of and alignment with IW’s mission, values, and model 
  • Supporting all involved stakeholders in addressing challenges and removing barriers as needed to drive accomplishment 
  • Record and update process resources, including insights, lessons learned, and opportunities for improvement 
  • Supporting professional and positive relationships between IW staff, clients, mentors, and partners 

 

  • Required: 

    Community Building: Proven track record of fostering collaborative environments and building solid relationships.

    Organization: Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously without compromising quality or accuracy. o Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively, tailor messaging to different audiences, and facilitate productive discussions and meetings.

    Collaboration: Collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders, build consensus, and drive collective action towards common goals.

    Problem-Solving: Effective problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify root causes, evaluate options, and implement practical solutions to complex challenges.

    Project Management: Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools, with the ability to develop detailed plans, track progress, and mitigate risks to ensure successful project execution.

    Business Experience: Experience or education in business administration, economic development, or as a business owner

    Connection to the Mission: Passion for supporting underserved entrepreneurs and driving community economic development

    Desired

    Results Oriented: Results-oriented mindset, with a focus on driving outcomes, measuring performance, and continuously improving processes to enhance organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

PLACE OF PERFORMANCE 

3-4 days of in-person work at the Incubator (located in downtown Baltimore) is required. Parking fee is paid for by Innovation Works. 

SALARY AND BENEFITS 

The salary range for this role is between $55,000-$70,000, commensurate with experience. Innovation Works offers a full benefits package, including major medical, dental, vision insurance, and other wellness-related benefits. Benefits also include professional development stipend and retirement contributions.

Apply here: Small Business Incubator Manager – Indeed