Communitech helps tech companies start, grow, and succeed in Waterloo Region.
We are a membership organization shaped by the people building tech companies in Waterloo Region. Since 1997, we've brought founders, leaders and teams together to help more companies start here, scale here and stay here.
We're working toward a stronger Waterloo Region tech community, one with more founders, more growing companies and more reasons for talented people to build their careers here. A place where companies choose to stay and others choose to put down roots.
Today, more than 1,100 companies are part of the Communitech network.
Through programs, events and membership, founders, leaders and the people working across local tech companies come together to learn from one another, share what’s working and build relationships that help them move forward.
Whether you’re growing a company, leading a team, exploring AI, protecting intellectual property or looking to expand your network, chances are someone in this network has been there before. Learn more at https://www.communitech.ca/.
We’re looking to grow our team with passionate people – people who believe in our mission and who are willing to do what it takes to help our founders succeed. If you like to work collaboratively, get s#!t done and be a champion for Canadian tech, we want to hear from you. Wonder what it’s like to work at Communitech? Learn more at https://www.communitech.ca/corporate-stuff/careers/.
Communitech is based in downtown Kitchener, Ontario. We work in-office five days a week because great things happen when we're together - creating space for deeper collaboration and stronger relationships with each other and the ecosystem we support.
The Role
Reporting to the VP, ElevateIP, the Program Specialist will oversee the successful development, implementation and execution of products and services related to the ElevateIP Program, a federally funded initiative to ensure more equitable access to:
IP protection awareness, promotion and information
IP strategy mentorship and coaching
Funding the development and implementation of IP strategies
The Program Specialist will support the development and delivery of information sessions and materials to help build awareness of the program among startups. Education and training may be delivered in person, remotely, or hybrid, and comes in a variety of formats such as videos, courses, workshops, and self-assessment tools.
Responsibilities
Working closely with the Senior Program Manager, the Program Specialist will assist the overall ElevateIP team in working with startups and appropriate advisors to coordinate the following activities:
Maintain our learning management platform with a suite of materials, best practices, and training modules focused on delivering IP services and support to startups
Compile and communicate local and regional support available to assist startups and how to access them (e.g. licensed service providers, self-assessment tools, and IP strategy resources)
Provide overviews on program resources, expertise, and education available through the ElevateIP program and how to access them
Support the delivery of educational workshops, roundtables, events, and information sessions
Build relationships and work cross-functionally with multiple teams at Communitech to drive startup recruitment into the program
Collaborate with team members on marketing and outreach activities to increase ElevateIP program awareness and engagement (e.g. promoting program events and resources on social media, hosting program information sessions, etc.)
Research and recommend processes and documentation to enable startups to find or access specialized training and support
Coordinate and track contracts, partnership agreements and invoices, and events schedule
Engage external vendors and partners to develop and provide advanced IP education/training for underrepresented groups, verticals, or sectors based on startup needs and gaps, in particular to meet the needs of:
Underrepresented groups (including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous people, racialized groups, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ2S+ individuals)
Specific sectors, technologies, and focus areas
Special topics related to IP strategy and implementation
Other duties as assigned. All duties subject to change.
Qualifications
1–3 years of relevant professional experience
Experience with a learning management system; please indicate the platform you are familiar with in your application
Previous experience working with enabling or growth organizations, supporting business-to-business sales, or working in a startup environment is considered an asset
Strong organizational skills with great attention to detail
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Passion for building relationships and providing outstanding customer service
Ability to handle and maintain confidential information with discretion and professionalism
Strong Google suite skills and collaborative tech usage
Ability to responsibly and ethically use generative AI tools to streamline workflows and increase efficiency in a professional setting
Experience using Salesforce or a similar CRM is an asset
Willingness to represent Communitech at events outside of normal working hours on occasion
Compensation
The annual base salary range for this role is $55,000-$58,000. This is a contract, full-time position to March 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension until March 31, 2030.
To Apply
Please apply online along with your resume and cover letter.
We thank all applicants in advance; however only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. All applications will be kept confidential. Communitech is a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including aboriginal persons, francophones, members of sexual minority groups, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and women. We will provide any requested accommodation to candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.
In compliance with Ontario’s Bill 190, we confirm that this posting represents a current, existing vacancy within our organization.
Please note that ADP’s platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to generate an applicant’s Candidate or Profile Relevance score. All applications will be reviewed by a human. Scores do not affect the visibility of an application and applicants may opt-out when applying.
