Ecosystem Development Director

Ecosystem Development Director

First Flight Venture Center is a non‑profit organization dedicated to supporting science‑focused entrepreneurs and startups in North Carolina. We provide a vibrant incubator environment, comprehensive programming, and access to a vast network of mentors and resources to help entrepreneurs launch and grow successful businesses. As a catalyst for innovation and economic development, First Flight plays a crucial role in fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.

The Ecosystem Development Director is responsible for cultivating sponsorship and partnership opportunities, leading and managing Signature Events like the High Flyer Awards Luncheon, and collaborating with First Flight Venture Center staff to identify speakers for our various entrepreneurial focused programs. This role requires a highly organized, detail oriented, and collaborative individual with strong project management skills. The Ecosystem Development Director is essential to advancing First Flight’s mission by securing the right blend of sponsor ships, strategic connections, and engaging speakers that empower entrepreneurs and strengthen the organization.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and growing organization that is making a real difference in the lives of entrepreneurs and supports the economic development of North Carolina. If you are passionate about supporting innovation and have a proven track record of success in fundraising and project management, we encourage you to apply!

Summary:

The Ecosystem Development Director is a key member of the leadership team, responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to ensure the sustainability of the First Flight Venture Center. This role oversees all development activities including identifying and closing sponsorship and partnership opportunities, leading and managing Signature Events such as the High Flyer Awards Luncheon, and collaborating with the First Flight team with identifying speakers for various events and programs.

Additionally, the Ecosystem Development Director is responsible for cultivating strong relationships with donors, board members, and community stakeholders. This role involves business development, fundraising, thought leadership, and strategic connections to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem for the organization.

• Develop and implement fundraising strategies aligned with First Flight’s goals.
• Establish and build relationships with key companies, organizations, and individuals to ensure First Flight’s success.
• Identify strategic relationships beneficial to both First Flight and our entrepreneurs.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the First Flight team around fundraising best practices and strategies.
• Assist with identifying regional, state‑wide, national, and global thought leadership opportunities for First Flight and our entrepreneurs.
• Assist First Flight team with identifying speakers and topics for our entrepreneurial focused programming.
• Collaborate with marketing staff and the First Flight team to create marketing collateral and presentations.
• Leverage First Flight’s CRM to track and monitor leads, create invoices, and analyze fundraising data.
• Manage sponsorship and partnership communications in conjunction with the First Flight team.

• Identify potential partners and sponsors for 3 Signature Events hosted by First Flight (High Flyers Awards Luncheon, March Madness, Barbecue, Brews, and Band).
• Serve as the project manager for First Flight’s Signature Events, leading the team to ensure a successful event.
• Leverage First Flight’s CRM platform to manage sponsor ships, attendees, and other event details.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business/Public Administration, Management, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in business development or fundraising, preferably in a non‑profit or entrepreneurial environment.
• Experience leading fundraising efforts.
• Strong project management skills.
• History of leading events and programs.
• Understanding of marketing and communications and…