Position Summary

Status: Full-time

Location: On-Site - San Francisco, CA

Salary: Competitive Compensation

Visa Status: US Residency, Green Card, or Working Visa holders not mandatory but considered a plus

Are you passionate about innovation and eager to make an impact on the growth of startups?

INNOVIT, the first Italian Innovation and Culture Hub in the heart of San Francisco, is looking for a Innovation Program Associate to support our innovation programs and help drive cross-border collaborations between Italy and Silicon Valley.

At INNOVIT, our mission is to spark innovation, celebrate cultural exchange, and fuel the growth of startups and SMEs through curated programs and events. We collaborate closely with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Italy in Washington, and the Consulate General in San Francisco, with support from the Italian Trade Agency and the Italian Cultural Institute.

We provide a platform for US companies, investors, and entrepreneurs to connect with innovative Italian enterprises, creating opportunities for investment and collaboration. As part of our growing team, you’ll have the chance to be part of something impactful and exciting.

Your New Role:

We are looking for a self-driven and organized Innovation Program Associate to join our San Francisco team. You’ll work closely with the Program Manager and Head of Innovation Programs to manage INNOVIT’s startup acceleration programs, events, and initiatives that bridge Italian enterprises with the Silicon Valley ecosystem.

As the ideal candidate, you have a passion for innovation and program management, thrive in fast-paced environments, and are eager to collaborate with startups and international partners.

Your Role Accountabilities:

Program Support:

Assist in the coordination and implementation of INNOVIT’s acceleration programs, providing hands-on support to ensure smooth execution and participant satisfaction.
Work closely with the team to design and execute workshops, strategic sessions, and tailored innovation initiatives for startups and SMEs.
Provide logistical and administrative support to manage program timelines, schedules, and materials.

Event Management and Execution:

Help plan and execute high-profile events such as Demo Days, pitch sessions, and networking events for startups, investors, and corporate partners.
Handle the logistics of event setup, participant registration, and post-event follow-up.
Ensure that event attendees, including entrepreneurs and executives, have a high-quality experience at INNOVIT.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Support engagement with program participants, mentors, and investors to foster strong relationships within INNOVIT’s network.
Assist in the outreach to US-based partners, including investors, corporates, and academic institutions, to ensure participation in programs and events.

Monitoring and Reporting:

Track program activities and monitor KPIs to ensure program goals are being met.
Assist in the preparation of reports and updates on program performance for internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

Min. 3 years of experience in program management, event coordination, or a related field.
Familiarity with innovation ecosystems, startups, or corporate innovation initiatives.
High proficiency in English; proficiency in Italian is a plus.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Flexibility to work occasional evenings to support events.
A proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Experience working with international teams or in cross-cultural contexts is a plus.

About INNOVIT:

INNOVIT is a multi-year strategic initiative launched by the Italian Government to enhance Italy’s innovation power and foster economic growth through cutting-edge R&D. Our hub in San Francisco connects Italian startups, SMEs, and corporates with Silicon Valley’s vibrant innovation ecosystem.

What We Offer:

At INNOVIT, we offer a collaborative, dynamic work environment where you’ll play a key role in helping Italian startups and enterprises grow. You’ll gain hands-on experience in program management and work alongside top innovators and leaders from both Italy and Silicon Valley.

Our office is located in downtown San Francisco at 710 Sansome Street, offering a vibrant workspace with offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces.

Salary, contract, and benefits will be tailored to the selected profile.

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