Entrepreneurship Program Coordinator

Company Overview

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut brings business leaders together to strengthen the region’s economic vitality. It promotes regional identity, represents business interests, connects members, and advances small businesses through educational and promotional programs.

• Reports to: Community Manager, Regional Innovation Center
• Employment Type: Part-Time, approx. 20 hours per week
• Contract/Timeline: This is a grant-funded position for approximately three years, contracted through September 30, 2029. Continuation beyond this date will depend on available funds.

Position Summary

The Entrepreneurship Program Coordinator supports the planning, coordination, and delivery of entrepreneurial education and small business development programs offered by the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut's Regional Innovation Center. Working closely with the RIC’s Community Manager, this position is primarily responsible for the Entrepreneur Academy (EA), a business training course that takes place twice a year. The role will also support and deliver other educational programming, including hosting workshops and events, maintaining program records, and collecting and reporting program outcomes in compliance with grant mandates.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed, building relationships across the community, and coordinating programs that create meaningful economic impact.

Program Coordination & Outreach

• Coordinate the planning, promotion, and delivery of Entrepreneur Academy and other entrepreneurship education programs.
• Manage program logistics, including registration, attendance tracking, participant communications, instructional materials, classroom setup, technology, and event support.
• Maintain thorough and accurate participant records and program documentation.
• Coordinate and support engagement with speakers, mentors, volunteers, and community partners to ensure high-quality program delivery and impact.
• Serve as an on-site facilitator for classes, workshops, and events; prepare classroom set-up per event such as seating, AV, food and beverage, etc.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned to support entrepreneurship programming, grant requirements, and Center operations.

Participant Support

• Serve as a primary point of contact for entrepreneurs participating in Chamber programs.
• Provide information, referrals, and connections to business resources, mentors, funding opportunities, and partner organizations.
• Foster participant engagement and support throughout program participation.

Reporting & Outcome Measurement

• Maintain participant databases, records, and documentation required for grant compliance and program evaluation.
• Collect and track participant data, attendance, evaluations, outcomes, and success stories.
• Prepare reports and supporting documentation for funders, stakeholders, audits, and grant-related requirements.
• Participate in required grant trainings and assist with data collection for future funding opportunities.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree and/or equivalent professional experience required; bachelor's degree preferred.
• One to three years of experience in program coordination, event management, nonprofit administration, education, workforce development, entrepreneurship support, or a related field.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and common office software; ability to learn industry-specific CRM systems and databases.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong relationship building skills and experience working with diverse stakeholders, business owners, or community organizations.

Schedule

• Flexible scheduling options available. Up to 20 hours per week expected.
• Generally, this role is in-person, though some preparatory work can be completed remotely.
• At minimum, in-person attendance at all program sessions/events is required, including designated evenings.