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Job Title


Program Lead - SME Acceleration


Company : Wadhwani Foundation


Location : Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh


Created : 2026-04-16


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Role Overview:The Program Manager is responsible for driving the SMB ecosystem development within their respective city. They will lead all ecosystem-related initiatives, manage key stakeholders, and ensure alignment with the national strategy. They will work closely with government bodies, incubators, accelerators, corporates, and investors to enhance the vibrancy of the startup ecosystem.Key Responsibilities:Ecosystem Strategy & LeadershipDevelop and execute a regional ecosystem development strategy, ensuring alignment with national objectives.Build a thriving SMB and Startup ecosystem by fostering collaboration among key stakeholders.Lead ecosystem mapping efforts, identifying gaps and opportunities in the hub’s startup landscape.Stakeholder Engagement & PartnershipsDevelop and maintain relationships with incubators, accelerators, investors, SMB, government agencies, and corporates.Foster cross-hub collaboration, ensuring best practices and shared knowledge are leveraged across regions.Act as a liaison between state government startup missions and central policy initiatives.Program Oversight & ExecutionOversee the SMB and Startup Portfolio Sourcing & Management teams to ensure high-quality program delivery.Guide startups and SMBs through funding readiness programs, investor connects, and market access initiatives.Support the creation of tailored programs in high-impact sectors (deep tech, biotech, cleantech, etc.).Impact Measurement & ReportingTrack ecosystem performance through key metrics, including revenues, customers, pilots, startup funding, job creation, and collaboration.Publish periodic reports on ecosystem health and program effectiveness.Leverage data-driven insights to refine strategies and interventions.Qualifications & Experience:8–12 years in ecosystem development, startup incubation, venture building, or government-led entrepreneurship programs.Strong experience in stakeholder engagement, strategic partnerships, and program execution.Understanding of startup funding, innovation ecosystems, and government support structures.Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.Familiarity with the startup landscape in India’s key hubs is a plus.