Accelerator Program Manager

About the role

This role involves leading the operational aspects and founder engagement for accelerator programs centered on blockchain and crypto. The manager will handle logistics for both virtual and in-person programs, ensuring smooth execution from onboarding to demo day. A key part of the work is designing and implementing founder-focused activities such as workshops and mentor sessions.

A significant responsibility is to identify and attract promising startups and founders globally. This includes sourcing through various channels like inbound applications, partnerships, and direct outreach. The manager will also collaborate with the investment team to evaluate and select startups for participation, contributing to the overall quality of the program cohorts.

Beyond program execution, the role emphasizes community building within the crypto ecosystem. This means fostering relationships with founders, connecting them with mentors, investors, and operators, and supporting their growth through resource planning and fundraising preparation. The individual will also manage program budgets and coordinate with internal teams to ensure operational efficiency.

The annual salary for this position ranges from $150,000 to $275,000, with additional generous bonus opportunities.

Who this role suits

• You are highly organized and pay close attention to details, ensuring all program elements run smoothly.
• You thrive in a fast-paced environment and can manage multiple tasks simultaneously, adapting as needed.
• You are comfortable working closely with early-stage founders and enjoy connecting them with resources and networks.
• You are a self-starter who can work independently but also collaborate effectively within a team.

From the employer

• Run operations and logistics for Draper University’s blockchain and fintech accelerator programs, both virtual and in-person
• Source promising startups and founders globally through inbound applications, ecosystem partnerships, events, and direct outreach
• Evaluate and help select startups for the program in collaboration with the investment team
• Design and execute founder programming, including workshops, investor dinners, mentor sessions, and demo day
• Manage founder onboarding, program schedules, speaker coordination, and overall cohort logistics
• Build relationships with founders and connect them with mentors, investors, and operators across the Draper ecosystem
• Support portfolio founders with resource planning, ecosystem introductions, and fundraising preparation
• Manage program budgets and track program costs and operational efficiency
• Coordinate across internal teams, including accounting, marketing, facilities, and HR to ensure smooth program execution
• Recruit, train, and manage program support staff and volunteers
• Contribute to the long-term strategy and development of Draper University’s accelerator programs

• Strong program management and operational leadership skills
• Experience sourcing startups, founders, or investment opportunities
• Interest in crypto, fintech, blockchain, or emerging financial technologies, or willingness to learn quickly
• Experience running events, accelerator programs, or founder communities
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to be both an independent self-starter and a strong team collaborator
• Comfort working closely with early-stage founders
• Willingness to wear multiple hats and jump in wherever needed

• $60-90k / year
• Generous bonuses after programs
• Free housing on campus (at no extra cost or deduction of salary) is great for relocation
• Generous bonus opportunities
• Enormous growth opportunities within the organization, we operate like a startup