Diaspora & Startup Coordinator

Diaspora & Startup Coordinator (D&SC)

MENACatalyst Foundation (MCF) is a fast-growing, social impact organization that specializes in economic empowerment, digitalization, and innovation. Located in the USA and Sweden with a strong presence in Palestine (Palestine Catalyst). MENACatalyst Foundation connects Palestinian startups/SMEs with business experts from the diaspora community to leverage their know-how, mentorship and financial support. Since 2016, MENACatalyst Foundation has established a high-net-worth diaspora network in the USA, Chile, UAE, and across Europe. This network has successfully channeled support for more than 45 local Palestinian startups and SMEs, helping them access regional markets, secure investments, and receive international acceleration and mentorship services. Through these efforts, MENACatalyst Foundation has significantly contributed to the Palestinian entrepreneurial ecosystem's growth and sustainability.

MENACatalyst Foundation is looking to hire a full-time Diaspora and Startup Coordinator to join our dynamic team and work in our office in Ramallah. The ideal candidate will coordinate with diaspora members and local startups, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to the growth and success of Palestinian innovative businesses. 

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Position Summary:

Under the supervision of the Project Lead, the Diaspora & Startup Coordinator will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to attract and engage with Diaspora business members, as well as connecting startups/SMEs with potential mentors, investors, incubators, and regional accelerators. The coordinator will also be responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders in the Palestinian startup ecosystem.

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Main responsibilities:

- S/he will work under the direct supervision of the Project Lead with main responsibility to realize, develop and improve the implementation of the diaspora & ecosystem components of the project. This would entail support to local startups/SMEs, business hubs and diaspora engagement;
- In consultation with the Project Lead, s/he will organize and oversee the implementation with the local stakeholders and implementing partners and monitor their work; furthermore, organize training workshops, B2B, conferences, and provide technical inputs during different project events;
- Supports the Project Lead for the preparation and organization of local events and international demo events for startups, SMEs, and business hubs;
- In consultation with the Project Lead, s/he will support planning, preparation, and implementation of all project activities;
- Supports outreach to diaspora groups around the globe, maintaining ongoing relationships, encouraging and engaging diaspora communities on areas of business development;
- Identifies and develops opportunities to utilize diaspora networks to promote Palestinian businesses;
- Develops and delivers key messages about engaging the diaspora community in Palestine's business and innovation development;
- In close cooperation with the IT expert, maintain accurate and complete records of the development of the Web platform;
- Maintains direct and regular communication with the Project Lead and provides written quarter, monthly and weekly reports; furthermore, prepares reports from all activities, including protocols, attendance lists, photos, etc; and recommends adjustments to improve project implementation;
- Organization of project meetings, participation in staff meetings and meetings with partner organizations, private sector representatives, and other stakeholders;
- Conducts other activities as requested by the Project Lead or as deemed necessary;
- Maintains an accurate record of all project-related communication and agreements, and ensures proper project documentation

Requirements:
- A Bachelor's degree is a must, preferably in the field of Social Sciences, Business, Economy or related fields. Master’s degree or equivalent is an asset.
- Minimum of four years' experience in entrepreneurship, startup acceleration, diaspora engagement and/or SMEs' development projects;
- Experience in implementing, monitoring, and evaluating development projects is an advantage;
- Experience in collaboration with international & local NGOs, and the private sector in the field of capacity development, business development, investment or related fields;
- Advanced skills in planning, written and oral communication, facilitation, and coordination;
- Excellent knowledge of English (both written and spoken);
- Very good skills in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint);
- Willingness to travel throughout the West Bank and abroad;

Send your application latest by 13 September 2024 via email to [email protected] indicating “D&SC” in the subject line.

Please provide:

1. Motivation Letter
2. Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English with details of your qualifications, experience, present position and the earliest date of availability;
3. Email address, Contact Info and Job Position of three references.

Note that applications without a Motivation Letter or CV may not be considered for shortlisting. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.