By Lumikha — Jun 18, 2026
Startup Scouting & Ecosystem Operations Specialist
If you like research, structure, and the idea of building a list of options into a polished, qualified pipeline, this is the job for you.
Remote / Full-time
The Role
Every innovation program (we call them "challenges") needs a steady stream of good startups applying. This role is the hands-on engine behind that: finding startups, checking that they're actually a good fit, keeping our records clean, and helping ensure outreach turns into real applications.
If you like research, structure, and the idea of building a list of options into a polished, qualified pipeline, this is that job.
What You'll Do
Find startups
- Search for startups across databases, accelerator and incubator programs, venture capital portfolios, universities, and other startup directories
- Build lists of startups that match what each program is seeking
- Keep our startup database accurate, complete, and up to date
Screen and qualify
- Check each startup against what the program needs — fit, stage of growth, location, technology, relevance — before it moves forward
- Keep the pipeline clean by removing startups that don't actually fit
- Keep our CRM (the system we use to track startups and contacts) accurate and well-organized
Support outreach
- Reach out to founders and follow up with them
- Run outreach campaigns that get startups to apply
- Help improve how many startups follow through and join our programs, not just hear about them
Keep an eye on the ecosystem
- Track relevant events, communities, associations, and startup hubs
- Spot new places we could be finding startups from
Who We're Looking For
- 2–4 years of experience in startup scouting, business development, venture-related work, accelerator programs, or research roles
- Strong research and analytical skills
- High attention to detail, especially when it comes to keeping CRM data clean and organized
- Comfortable with detailed, repetitive work done at volume — this role involves a lot of structured execution
- Genuine curiosity about startups, innovation, and new technology
- Strong communication skills, especially when reaching out to founders directly