The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) serves as the national voice of Black business, representing Black Chambers of Commerce and business organizations nationwide. USBC provides leadership, advocacy, and resources to support the growth and sustainability of Black-owned businesses.
The USBC Accelerator Program is a cornerstone initiative designed to equip growth-stage Black entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, mentorship, and access to capital needed to scale their enterprises and create lasting economic impact.
Position Summary
The Program Director will lead the development and launch of the USBC Accelerator Program from inception through execution. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring vision, initiative, and strategic management to build new systems, teams, and partnerships that will transform the program into a nationally recognized model for entrepreneurial advancement.
The Program Director will oversee the full life cycle of the Accelerator Program, including curriculum design, participant recruitment, team management, partnership development, and alumni engagement, while ensuring alignment with USBC's mission to advance Black-owned businesses and economic equity.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Management
- Design and implement the USBC Accelerator Program, including its strategy, structure, and execution.
- Oversee daily program operations, budgets, and performance reporting.
- Develop and refine curriculum content in collaboration with mentors, subject matter experts, and partners.
- Ensure program outcomes are measurable and aligned with USBC's strategic objectives.
Team Building
- Recruit, develop, and lead the team responsible for delivering the Accelerator Program.
Entrepreneur Support
- Serve as the primary point of contact for participating entrepreneurs.
- Facilitate workshops, webinars, and networking events.
- Track participant progress and identify opportunities for customized support.
Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain relationships with mentors, investors, sponsors, and ecosystem partners.
- Collaborate with internal USBC teams to enhance program visibility and integration.
- Support fundraising and grant efforts to sustain and expand the program.
Incubator & Brand Development
- Develop the incubator's philosophy, framework, and brand identity.
- Create marketing campaigns to recruit high-potential Black-owned startups and growth-stage enterprises.
Data & Impact Measurement
- Establish and monitor metrics for program effectiveness and participant outcomes.
- Prepare reports and presentations for funders, stakeholders, and the USBC Board.
Alumni & Ecosystem Building
- Build a robust alumni network for ongoing mentorship, peer learning, and investment connections.
- Foster continued engagement and visibility for program graduates.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business, economics, entrepreneurship, public policy, or a related field (Master's preferred).
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in program management, entrepreneurship support, or startup ecosystem leadership.
- Knowledge of small business growth strategies, accelerator/incubator models, and entrepreneurial finance.
- Exceptional project management, communication, and organizational skills.
- Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement and partnership building.
- Strong commitment to USBC's mission of advancing Black-owned businesses and economic inclusion.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs or communities of color.
- Familiarity with nonprofit grant compliance and reporting.
- Proficiency with CRM, analytics, and project management software.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement plan, and paid leave.
- Opportunities for professional development and national networking in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.