Senior Program Manager, Investment Readiness & Grant Programs

Senior Program Manager, Investment Readiness & Grant Programs

Location
:
Amsterdam (preferred)
Organisation
: VC4A – Venture Capital for Africa
Reports to
:
Head of Acceleration

VC4A is a leading ecosystem builder supporting high-growth startups across emerging markets. Through investment readiness training, venture showcases, mentorship, and investor engagement, VC4A helps entrepreneurs connect with the capital, knowledge, and networks required to scale.

VC4A works with founders, investors, development partners, and ecosystem stakeholders to unlock early-stage capital and strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems across Africa and other emerging markets.

VC4A is seeking a Senior Program Manager to support the delivery of startup support programs focused on investment readiness and the deployment of catalytic grant funding to early-stage companies.

The role combines project management, startup finance, and ecosystem engagement. The successful candidate will work closely with founders to strengthen their investment readiness while also supporting the deployment, monitoring, and reporting of grant funding provided to startups.

The position is ideally based in Amsterdam, with regular travel and engagement across Africa’s startup ecosystem.

Lead the design and delivery of programs that prepare startups to raise capital from angel investors, venture capital funds, and other early-stage investors.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing investment readiness training programs for startups seeking Seed and Series A investment.
• Coordinating curriculum delivery across topics such as:
  • financial modelling
  • startup valuations
  • fundraising strategy
  • deal structuring
  • investor communications
• Coordinating both internal and external stakeholders as well as mentors, trainers, and ecosystem partners involved in the program.
• Managing program timelines, deliverables, and reporting requirements.
• Providing feedback to founders on pitch decks, fundraising strategies, and financial models.
• Preparing startups for investor engagement opportunities such as demo days or venture showcases.

Support the deployment of grant funding designed to accelerate the growth of early-stage startups.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing the selection and onboarding of startups receiving grant funding.
• Analysis of startup financials and operational plans to ensure program fit.
• In-person due diligence of shortlisted startups.
• Coordinating reporting and documentation required by funding partners.
• Facilitating technical assistance support offered by the program, including stakeholder co-ordination.
• Monitoring startup progress against agreed milestones and deliverables.

Support founders in strengthening their financial management and fundraising readiness.

Responsibilities include:

• Reviewing startup financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow).
• Assessing unit economics, burn rate, runway, and capital requirements.
• Supporting founders in developing credible financial projections and fundraising strategies.
• Helping translate financial data into clear investor narratives.

Coordinate engagement with investors, ecosystem partners, and program stakeholders.

Responsibilities include:

• Engaging angel investors, venture capital funds, and ecosystem partners.
• Facilitating introductions between founders and investors where appropriate.
• Participating in ecosystem events and initiatives relevant to startup investment.

Ensure smooth program delivery through effective operational systems.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing program workflows and founder…